Application of Agile Methodologies and Performance of Humanitarian Projects at Mahama Refugee Camp in Kirehe District, Rwanda

Jean Steve Ingabire and Kwena Ronald
University of Kigali
Email: steveingbire2@gmail.com

Abstract: This study assessed the influence of the Scrum framework on the performance of humanitarian projects at Mahama Refugee Camp in Kirehe District, Rwanda. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach using a descriptive and correlational research design. The target population comprised 423 respondents, from which a sample of 206 respondents was determined using Yamane’s formula. Stratified and purposive sampling techniques were used. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and documentary review and analyzed using SPSS Version 25. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and simple linear regression were used for quantitative analysis, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Descriptive findings indicated that the Scrum framework was generally well practiced, particularly in improving sprint completion, team velocity, task adaptability, coordination, monitoring, stakeholder feedback, and responsiveness to changing project needs. Pearson correlation showed a strong positive and statistically significant relationship between the Scrum framework and humanitarian project performance (r = 0.689, p = 0.000). Regression analysis showed that the Scrum framework significantly influenced humanitarian project performance and explained 47.4% of the variation in project performance (R² = 0.474, F = 138.869, β = 0.689, p = 0.000). The study concluded that effective application of the Scrum framework contributes substantially to humanitarian project performance. It recommends strengthening sprint planning and task adaptability, regular Scrum meetings and team coordination, and continuous monitoring and feedback mechanisms to improve the implementation of humanitarian projects.