Abstract

This study, entitled “The Contribution of Rural Women Empowerment Projects on Socio-Economic Development of Lower-Income Women: A Case of BRAC International Rwanda (2018–2021),” aims to explore the role of empowerment initiatives in improving the livelihoods of low-income women. It is guided by three specific objectives: (1) to assess the activities of BRAC International aimed at reducing poverty among low-income women in Rwamagana District; (2) to analyze the socio-economic development indicators of women beneficiaries of BRAC International in the district; and (3) to determine the effect of BRAC International’s activities on the socio-economic development of these women.The study employed a descriptive and correlational research design. The sample consisted of 271 women beneficiaries organized into five savings groups in Kigabiro Sector, Rwamagana District, along with two key staff members of BRAC International the branch manager and a loan officer. Data were collected using questionnaires, interviews, and documentary reviews. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used for data analysis.The findings revealed that BRAC International provided its services to a very high extent, particularly in loan provision, which had a high mean score of 4.50. Additionally, the socio-economic development of the women beneficiaries significantly improved, with household income achieving a mean score of 4.58. Regression results further indicated that a one-unit increase in the following BRAC services led to respective improvements in socio-economic development: loan services (β₁ = 1.156), savings mobilization services (β₂ = 0.188), training services (β₃ = 0.117), and promotion of off-farm activities (β₄ = 0.358). These results affirm the positive impact of BRAC International’s empowerment activities on the socio-economic status of low-income women in Rwamagana District.

Keywords

Rural Women, Empowerment Projects, Social-Economic Development