Effects of Project-Based Strategies on Poverty Reduction among Single Mothers in Kicukiro District, Rwanda
Georginah Muhoza and Tarus Thomas
University of Kigali
Email: muhozageorge@gmail.com
Abstract: This study investigated the effect of project-based strategies on poverty reduction among single mothers in Kicukiro District, Rwanda. Specifically, it examined the effects of project-based skills development, financial support, income-generating, and social support strategies on poverty reduction. The study was guided by Empowerment Theory, the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF), and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). A descriptive and correlational research design was adopted using quantitative and qualitative approaches. The target population comprised 348 respondents, and a sample of 186 was selected using Yamane’s formula. A total of 152 valid questionnaires and 24 key-informant interviews were obtained. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS through descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, ANOVA, and multiple regression, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings showed positive and statistically significant relationships between poverty reduction and skills development (r = 0.862, p < 0.001), financial support (r = 0.633, p < 0.001), income-generating strategies (r = 0.870, p < 0.001), and social support (r = 0.841, p < 0.001). Regression results further showed significant positive effects of skills development (β = 0.288, p < 0.001), financial support (β = 0.173, p < 0.001), income-generating strategies (β = 0.297, p < 0.001), and social support (β = 0.280, p < 0.001). The model explained 85.2% of the variation in poverty reduction (R² = 0.852). The study concludes that integrated project-based interventions combining skills, finance, income-generating opportunities, and social support can substantially improve the socio-economic well-being of single mothers. It recommends strengthening integrated and sustainable programmes, expanding access to finance and markets, aligning training with economic opportunities, and reinforcing mentorship and social support mechanisms.
