USAID DEC
Soil degradation was attributed to intensive farming practices and inadequate crop rotation, while limited market access hindered farmers' ability to sell their produce at competitive prices.
51 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. The higher adoption rates among women-headed households were attributed to their greater involvement in household decision-making and their willingness to adopt new practices to improve their family's food security. The evaluation also showed that the program had a positive impact on poverty reduction, with a 15% decrease in the poverty rate among program participants. The results of the midterm evaluation informed the program's scaling up and expansion to other regions in Rwanda. The program's success was attributed to the collaborative efforts of local government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and community groups. The program's focus on sustainable agriculture practices and market access interventions helped to improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and their families. The program's impact on poverty reduction and food security has set a precedent for future agricultural development initiatives in Rwanda.
Classification
USAID DEC