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.
80 pages

Abstract
The training 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 may be attributed to the fact that women often have more control over household resources and decision-making processes. The initiative also provided training on business skills and market access, enabling farmers to negotiate better prices for their produce. The evaluation also showed that the initiative had a positive impact on poverty reduction, with 22% of program participants reporting a reduction in poverty levels. The findings suggest that the initiative has the potential to improve food security and reduce poverty in Rwanda, particularly in areas with limited market access and poor agricultural practices.
Classification
USAID DEC