USAID DEC
Soil degradation was attributed to intensive farming practices and inadequate fertilizer use, while limited market access hindered farmers' ability to sell their produce at competitive prices.
1 pages

Abstract
The training programs emphasized the importance of crop rotation, composting, and conservation agriculture to improve soil fertility and reduce erosion. The plots also served as a platform for farmers to share knowledge and best practices. This may be attributed to the fact that women often have more control over household resources and are more likely to prioritize food security. The initiative also provided training on business skills and market analysis to help farmers navigate the market more effectively. The evaluation also found that the initiative had a positive impact on poverty reduction, with 22% of program participants reporting a reduction in poverty levels. The results suggest that the initiative has been effective in improving agricultural productivity and market access for smallholder farmers in Rwanda.
Classification
USAID DEC