USAID DEC
Soil degradation was attributed to intensive farming practices and lack of conservation tillage, while limited market access hindered farmers' ability to sell their produce at competitive prices.
3 pages

Abstract
The training programs emphasized the importance of crop rotation, composting, and conservation tillage to improve soil fertility and reduce erosion. The plots also served as a platform for farmers to share knowledge and best practices. This suggests that women in these households were more receptive to new agricultural techniques and more proactive in adopting sustainable practices. The higher adoption rates among women-headed households may be attributed to their greater reliance on agriculture as a primary source of income. The evaluation also showed that the program had a positive impact on poverty reduction, with a significant decrease in the number of households living below the poverty line. The results of the midterm evaluation suggest that the agricultural development initiative in Rwanda is on track to achieve its objectives and improve the livelihoods of rural communities. The program's success can be attributed to the effective implementation of the three key interventions, as well as the strong engagement of local communities and stakeholders. The initiative's focus on sustainable agriculture practices and market access has helped to improve crop yields, increase household income, and reduce poverty. The program's impact is expected to be sustained in the long term, as the skills and knowledge acquired by farmers and other stakeholders will continue to benefit them even after the program's completion.
Classification
USAID DEC