Abstract: This study assessed the contribution of Farmer Field and Life Schools (FFLS) to rural women’s economic empowerment under Phase Two of the Joint Programme on Rural Women’s Economic Empowerment (JP-RWEE) in Rwanda. It examined three outcome areas: perceived agricultural productivity, financial literacy, and leadership and decision-making. A descriptive survey design combined quantitative and qualitative approaches. The target population comprised 2,751 active FFLS beneficiaries in Kirehe and Nyamasheke districts, from whom 96 respondents were selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and key-informant interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed in STATA 13 using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression, while interview data were analyzed thematically. Respondents reported high perceived contribution ratings for agricultural productivity (M = 4.4688, SD = 0.5420), financial literacy (M = 4.2604, SD = 0.6198), and leadership and decision-making (M = 4.4583, SD = 0.5604). However, the regression models based on training sessions attended and modules completed did not significantly predict agricultural-productivity ratings (R² = 0.0059, p = 0.7604) or financial-literacy ratings (R² = 0.0166, p = 0.460). The leadership and decision-making model was statistically significant (F(2,93) = 3.52, p = 0.0335; R² = 0.0705), with attendance significantly associated with the outcome (p = 0.019). Interview findings highlighted improved farming knowledge, financial awareness, confidence, and participation in household and community discussions. The study concludes that FFLS is a useful empowerment platform, but training should be linked to productive resources, extension, financial services, markets, mentoring, and practical leadership opportunities.
Keywords: Farmer Field and Life Schools; rural women; economic empowerment; agricultural productivity; financial literacy; leadership; decision-making; JP-RWEE; Rwanda.
Title: CONTRIBUTION OF FARMER FIELD AND LIFE SCHOOLS TO RURAL WOMEN’S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT: A CASE STUDY OF THE RURAL WOMEN’S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT PROJECT IN RWANDA
Author: Rutayisire Jean Bosco, Dr. Naomi Njoroge
International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research
ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)
Vol. 14, Issue 4, October 2026 - December 2026
Page No: 313-321
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 31-October-2026
