Memoire Online - The role of the use of improved agricultural practices in ensuring food security in Rwanda

INSTITUT D'ENSEIGNEMENT SUPÉRIEUR DE RUHENGERI Accredited by Ministerial Order N^O 005/2010/Mineduc of 16 June 2010

THE ROLE OF THE USE OF IMPROVED AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES IN ENSURING FOOD SECURITY IN RWANDA

Dissertation Submitted to the Faculty of statistics applied to economy as a partial fulfilment of the award of a Degree of Engineering in Statistics Applied to Economy

DEDICATION

DECLARATION

I, Emmanuel NSENGIYUMVA, hereby declare that this dissertation entitled «The role of the use of improved agricultural practice in ensuring food security in Rwanda, case study: CYANIKA sector, BURERA District» is submitted as a partial Fulfilment for the award of a Degree of Engineering in Applied Fundamental sciences

The work is the result of my own investigations. All sections of the text and results that have been obtained from other sources were fully referenced. I understand that cheating and plagiarism constitute a breach of the Institute regulations and will be dealt with accordingly

APPROVAL

This is to affirm that this Research work entitled «The role of the use of improved agricultural practice in ensuring food security in Rwanda, case study: CYANIKA sector, BURERA District» was carried out under my supervision.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The success of this research paper is attributed to encouragement, kindness and guidance of many individuals, relatives and friends.

My first gratitude is given to God, without whose love and will, the journey towards this work would not have been completed.

I'm deeply indebted to my Supervisor Mr. Valence NGABO whose guidance; correction and encouragement at all stages of his study were indispensable for its completion

I also extend my special thanks to my Father NAHIMANA Gervais and my late Mother Cecille MUKAKALISA who departed when we needed her most and who left before enjoying the benefits of her sweat in bringing me up and educating me.

It is also dedicated to my sister DUSABE Sarah and my all young brothers who sacrificed a lot for me. Their love, advices and financial support as well as prayers have been my encouragement during my studies in INES RUHENGERI.

Sincere thanks are extended to the staff of the Department of Statistics Applied tom economy, Faculty of applied statistics at INES-RUHENGERI for their motivation and commitment to train future bright Statisticians

I also owe gratitude to all other people who rendered their moral and intellectual support during my studies

Last but not least, I wish to extend my sincere thanks to my classmates, work team, all friends and my relatives far and near for their generous efforts without which this dissertation would not have been completed. I will always recognize your support

TABLE OF CONTENT

LIST OF ACRONYMS

RESUME

L'agriculture est la colonne vertébrale de l'économie de Rwanda et la majorité de maisons dans le pays prend part à récolte ou activités de la production du bétail. Le secteur de l'agriculture est considéré par conséquent largement comme le catalyseur majeur pour croissance économique et réduction de la pauvreté. En 2010-2011, l'augmentation agricole était 3.2%, d'après l'Institut National de Statistiques de Rwanda (NISR). Comme une part de produit intérieur brut (PIB)

Le secteur de l'agriculture compose 31% du PIB de Rwanda, 70% d'exportations,; emploi -80% de population et aussi l'agriculture fournit 90% besoins de la nourriture nationaux. En mars 2013, 24% de maisons avait la consommation de la nourriture ou pauvre ou limite comparée à mars 2012 quand ces catégories de maisons représentaient 23%. Cette différence de l'insignifiance montre que la situation de la sécurité de la nourriture totale est comparable à il y a une année. (CFSVA 2013, Initiatives Nationales pour sécurité de la nourriture et Nutrition) Il a été trouvé que la productivité basse au Rwanda est principalement attribuée pour mugir usage d'entrées. Dans un cycle violent, la productivité basse continue à empêcher des fermiers d'utiliser des entrées, comme beaucoup de fermiers à peine produisez de la nourriture suffisante pour nourrir leur famille, et par conséquent n'ayez pas de revenu avec lequel acheter cèdent rehausser des entrées. Donc la solution s'allonge dans casser ce cycle à travers intervention appropriée.

Révolution Verte en Asie (Les initiatives, menées par Borlaug normand,) et ailleurs a été servi de médiateur par la facilitation d'entrées modernes tel que les graines améliorées, les engrais et les pesticides aux fermiers. (CIP) Augmenter par conséquent productivité agricole et sécurité de la nourriture au Rwanda exige de la reproduction de telle adoption d'entrées modernes par les fermiers du petit cultivateur à Augmenter productivité agricole et sécurité de la nourriture. Mettre ceci comme le but, le Ministère d'Agriculture et Ressources de l'Animal (MINAGRI) a développé le Programme de l'Intensification de la Récolte (CIP) en 2007 (saison 2008A). Depuis que la plupart des entrées ont être importé, le coût de transport à régions éloignées combinées avec la demande pauvre naturelle pour la nourriture des entrées les prix des entrées haut. Le gouvernement avec l'aide de partenaires du développement a vaincu cet obstacle à travers acquisition du volume de graines améliorées et engrais de pays du neighbouring et a distribué les entrées aux fermiers à travers un réseau de public et associations privées.

CHAPTER ONE: GENERAL INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction

This chapter is about the introduction of the study, background of the study, research problem statement, research questions, hypotheses of the research, and objectives of the study scope of the research study choice interest, methodology and the subdivision of the research.

The interest of this research came up when I was conducting my fourth year internship in the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI) in 2013. By getting to know what is all about, I found that it undertakes a survey called Comprehensive food security vulnerability analysis (CFSVA) aiming to gain a better understanding of the nature and degree of food insecurity and malnutrition in the country. I went through CFSVA 2012; I found that BURERA District is among 13 districts with highest share of households with poor food consumption or borderline food consumption. I was interested and motivated to find out whether food security has improved through the use of inputs by consulting different reports, documents, dissertations related to food security and input use, providing also a questionnaire to local people and leaders for getting primary data.

1.2 Background of the study

Agriculture is the backbone of Rwanda's economy and the majority of households in the country are engaged in crop or livestock production activities. The agriculture sector is therefore widely regarded as the major catalyst for economic growth and poverty reduction. In 2010-2011, agricultural growth was 32%, according to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR). As a share of gross domestic product (GDP)

The agriculture sector makes up 33% of Rwanda's GDP, 70% of exports; employment 72% of population and also agriculture provides 90% national food needs. In March 2013, 24% of households had either poor or borderline food consumption compared to March 2012 when these categories of households were representing 23%. This insignificance difference shows that the overall food security situation is comparable to one year ago^1(*).

It was found that low productivity in Rwanda is mainly attributed to low use of improved agricultural practices. In a violent cycle, the low productivity continues to prevent farmers from using improved agricultural practices, as many farmers barely produce sufficient food to feed their family, and therefore have no income with which to purchase yield enhancing improved agricultural practices. Thus the solution lies in breaking this cycle through appropriate intervention.

Green revolution in Asia (The initiatives, led by Norman Borlaug,) and elsewhere was mediated by the facilitation of modern inputs such as improved seeds, fertilizers and pesticides to farmers. In Rwanda CIP has increased agricultural productivity and food security by a replication of such adoption of modern inputs by the smallholder farmers to Increasing agricultural productivity and food security. Setting this as the goal, the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI) developed the Crop Intensification Program (CIP) in 2007 season 2008A.

Since most of the improved agricultural practices have to be imported, the cost of transportation to remote areas combined with the natural poor demand for inputs keep their prices high. The government with the help of development partners overcame this obstacle through volume procurement of improved seeds and fertilizers from neighbouring countries and distribute them to farmers through a network of public and private partnerships.

According to CFSVA 2012 report, it is clear that food consumption score used as a preferred single indicator of current household food security. So Households with poor or borderline food consumption was considered to be food insecure while those with acceptable food consumption on are food secure.

In March/April 2012, one in five Rwandan households (21%) had unacceptable food consumption and could be considered to be food insecure. Out of the total population, 4% had poor food consumption (82,000 households), which represents an extremely insufficient and unbalanced diet, and 17% borderline food consumption (378,000 households). These figures show clear improvement since the 2006 CFSVA and seem to indicate a small, although not confirmed, improvement in household food consumption since the last CFSVA and Nutrition Survey was conducted in February/March 2009.

Household with Food Security was better in March 2012 than in September (seasonality, and Household with food stocks) Food Security stable since March 2012. Households with acceptable didn't change Food Consumption between September 2012 and September 2013

§ Vulnerable HHs are those Headed by women and elderly headed by Divorced, widows, never married

§ HHs with little land (The less land households have the more likely they are to be food insecure, and the more they need to cope with lack of food)

§ HH having only 1 activity are worse off than those who practice a combination of activities and HHs surviving with uncertain activity (aid/gifts, Gathering, Daily labor) are more food insecure

§ The less the head of HH has formal education, the more the households is food insecure

§ South & Western Provinces have a higher share of food insecure HHS along all 7 rounds of FNSMS

§ Diet in Rwanda is mainly based on Starches and pulses, very little meat, poultry Milk and milk mainly consume in households with acceptable FC HH with poor food consumption eat pulses and oil only 1 day per. They do not consume sugar, milk, meat and fruit. HH with acceptable FC eat starch and pulses 7 d/w, Vegetables and fat 5 d/w (oil, butter, ghee)

§ The less households spend the more likely they are to be food insecure, this may be related to low income

§ More vulnerable HHs are affected by High food prices, human illness or accident, loss or reduced HH income and death of a HH working member

At district level, Rutsiro (53%), Ngororero (44%), Rusizi (49%), Nyamasheke (37%) and Karongi (37%) have the highest percentages of households with unacceptable consumption. The poorer districts tend to have the highest share of households with poor food consumption and are located in the western and southern provinces. Almost three in four (70%) households with poor or borderline food consumption are in 13 districts Ngororero, Rutsiro, Karongi, Rusizi, Gatsibo,Nyamasheke, Nyamagabe, Bugesera, Nyanza,Burera, Gakenke, Rubavu and Rulindo.

In the latest CFSVA report released in December 2012, it pointed out that out of the total population, 4 percent of Rwandan household's equivalent to 82,000 homes, had poor food consumption, which represents an extremely insufficient and unbalanced diet

«It is said that in March/April 2012, one in five Rwandan households had unacceptable food consumption and could be considered to be food insecure^3(*)

This research has tackled the subject under the title «the role of the use improved agricultural practice use in ensuring food security in rural areas» a case study CYANIKA Sector, BURERA District, Period 2012-2013

1.3 Situation of the use of agricultural inputs in Rwanda

1.3.1 Effect of the use of inputs on food security

Access to agricultural inputs has long been slowing down the farmers from raising productivity levels. The access was reduced by the low demand and costs which are further amplified by the difficulties in transportation to rural areas. To overcome these constraints, CIP took a `supply-push' approach whereby the government initially supplies the inputs and the farmers are convinced to use them to raising productivity

1.4.Fertilizer access has been improved through financial assistance4(*)

Government has been purchasing fertilizers in bulk and selling them to distribution companies at a subsidized price; the distributors then sell them to smallholder farmers who are usually grouped in cooperatives. We are now preparing to transfer the importing responsibilities to private companies," Murekezi said.^5(*)

1.5 Access to improved seeds-partnerships between private & public sectors

The government Rwanda has put in place different measures to facilitate farmer's access improved seed in partnership with different institutions. The following were set as priorities:

Due to the growing demographic pressure on land, the agricultural lands in Rwanda are highly fragmented. Since the use of inputs such as the improved seeds and fertilizer can be translated into profitability for smallholder farmers only if the land fragmentation is overcome, the land use patterns need to be organized. With the help of recent government's policy reforms, the crop intensification program advocated consolidation of land use by farmers. Under the land consolidation policy, farmers in a given area need to grow specific food crops in a synchronized fashion that will improve the productivity and environmental sustainability. It also required resettlement of family housing in an administrative area (Umudugudu) from the agriculturally productive lands.

At least 37.5 percent of the land in Rwanda needs to be managed before being cultivated, and overall an estimated 39.1 percent of the land has a high erosion risk. "We estimate that erosion affects [our] ability to feed 40,000 persons per year," So far, measures against erosion have been implemented and losses from erosion per year average close to 14 million tones of soil, according to the ministry (MINAGRI)^6(*) Stable farming system that has been used for several generations and has been able to supply the nutritional and material needs so the Traditional farming is being replaced by modern intensive farming systems hoping that An integration of farming systems, combining the productivity of modern systems and the sustainability of traditional systems, could help to preserve biological diversity and feed a growing population without excessive damage to the environment. To improve productivity and ensure food security

1.6 Problem statement

In Rwanda majority of the population depends on agricultural activities being labor intensive, where in 2005/2006, the agricultural population was estimated to be 89.6% of the total population and accounts for a third of Rwanda's GDP agriculture is able to absorb a large pool of people, especially the less educated that would find it difficult to get employment in the industrial or service sectors^7(*)

However, this large pool of people engaged in agricultural sector does not prevent a large portion of the country's population to be affected by chronic and transitory food insecurity. Due to traditional method of agriculture, weather condition and soil erosion Food security situation in Rwanda is highly linked up to severe recurring food shortage and famine. The Rwandan Government has recently adopted new agriculture and land policies that strive to increase the productivity in agricultural sector through the land use consolidation and the use of improved agricultural practice such as improved seeds, pesticides and fertilizers.

Thus the present research was conducted to find out the role of the use of improved agricultural practice in ensuring food security in rural areas especially Cyanika Sector Burera District.

1.6.1 Objective of study

The objectives of this research are subdivided into general and specific objectives

1.6.2 General objective

The general objective of this study is to analyze the role of the use of improved agricultural practice in ensuring food security in rural areas. Case study in CYANIKA Sector, BURERA District

1.6.3 Specific objective

1. To find out how the use of fertilizers has improved food production in rural area of CYANIKA Sector

2. To analyze the contribution of the use of improved seeds in promoting food security trough the increase in food production in rural area of CYANIKA Sector

3. To find out how the use of pesticides has helped to increase production in rural area CYANIKA sector

1.6.4. Research questions

This research deals with the role of the use of agricultural input in ensuring food security in rural areas. So research questions of this study will be:

3. Does the use of improved seeds promote food security trough the increase in food production in CYANIKA Sector?

1.6.5 Hypothesis of the study

This is the proposal for an answer to the questions which one puts in connection with the object of research, formulated in terms such that the observation and the analysis can provide an answer

1. The use of fertilizers has significantly contribute to improve food production in rural area of CYANIKA Sector

2. The utilization of improved seeds has promoting food security trough the increase in food production in rural area CYANIKA Sector

3. The use of insect killer (pesticide) in agricultural activity helped to raise up crop production in rural area CYANIKA sector

1.6.6 Scope of the study

The subject is delimitated at three levels: Research delimitation in time, research delimitation in space and research delimitation in domain

1.6.7 Research delimitation in time

The data used in the study was collected within the limited period of two years, which is 2012 to 2013.

1.6.8 Research delimitation in space

The study has been conducted within administrative boundaries in Burera District especially in CYANIKA sector.

1.6.9 Research delimitation in domain/field

The research had been conducted in order to underline the role of the use of input in ensuring food security in rural area. The use of improved agricultural practice and food security is being the one of important economic activities; the domain of this research is consequently economic.

1.7. Significance of the study

The result of the study will be to show how the use of improved inputs contributed much on ensuring food security in CYANIKA sector. It will help the researcher to acquire skills in the problem solving process and using these skills in the forthcoming researches if conducted.

It will help the researcher to know how theories applied in class are put in practical. The study will guide the interested future researchers; since it indicated reality related to the role of the use of improved agricultural practice in ensuring food security in rural area of CYANIKA Sector

1.8. Choice of interest

1.8.1 Self interest

This research will help me to master the theoretical knowledge acquired from the institution and also to get a general picture on the positive impact of the use of input in promoting food consumption when it is used. Having established the role of the use improved agricultural practice in ensuring food security in rural areas especially CYANIKA sector, BURERA District

1.8.2 Academic interest

This work was serving as a reference for other researcher's wishing to conduct advanced research in these areas. Our subjects meet the academic requirements that recommend that scientific work at the end of fifth level of high education. This research helps future researchers to the documentation according to the role of the use of input in ensuring food security in rural areas.

1.8.3 Social interest

This study has a great importance to Rwandan society as it provides information on the role of the use of input in rural areas and the role of appropriate and proper use of inputs so as to increase agricultural productivity and improve food security. This research also helps the society to find out the problems related to the food insecure and has eventually release useful recommendation to society of a country as a whole

1.8.4 Political interest

Politically, this study will help local leaders to find out the driving factor that can lead especially CYANIKA Sector to be food secure through the identification of the use of inputs in increasing their food production

CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction

This chapter provides the ground framework of this research. The contribution of the use of improved agricultural practice in ensuring food security in Rwanda is evident. It is from this point of view that the present chapter tries to put forward the relevant literature relating to this study by different authors in books, reports and any published documents which were available to the researcher.

2.2 Definition of key concepts

2.2.1. Improved agricultural practices

Improved agricultural practices are the specific method which, when applied to agriculture create food for consumers or further processing that is safe and healthy

In this study, we emphasized it the most common used to help farmers to increase their food production such as fertilizers, improved seeds and pesticides

2.2.2 Fertilizer

Fertilizer is any organic or inorganic material of natural or synthetic origin that is added to soil to supply one or more plant nutrients essential to the growth of plants. Mined inorganic fertilizers have been used for many centuries, whereas chemically synthesized inorganic fertilizers were only widely developed during the industrial revolution.

Fertilizers are broadly divided into organic fertilizers (composed of organic plant or animal matter), or inorganic or commercial fertilizers. Plants can only absorb their required nutrients if they are present in easily dissolved chemical compounds. Both organic and inorganic fertilizers provide the same needed chemical compounds. Organic fertilizers provided other macro and micro plant nutrients and are released as the organic matter decays--this may take months or years. Organic fertilizers nearly always have much lower concentrations of plant nutrients and have the usual problems of economical collection, treatment, transportation and distribution.

It should be acknowledged that organic resources are not the substitutes for mineral fertilizers because they have low or rather inaccessible nutrient content and are usually not abundantly available. They however condition the soil and improve mineral fertilizer use efficiency. The CIP should enhance the capacities of farmers and local entrepreneurs to anticipate and adopt integrated soil fertility management practices. It is important to note that women play an important role in such initiatives as they are more receptive to environmentally sound practices.

Through largeness orders, CIP imported fertilizers and distributed to farmers through various service providers. About 83% of fertilizers were used by farmers growing maize, wheat, rice and potato. In 2009, CIP imported 14,427 tons and distributed to maize and wheat growers at subsidized rates (50%) the overhead costs (transportation and administrative costs) from Mumbasa to rural areas were covered by the government. CIP continued to import and distribute in 2010 (33,500 t) and 2011 (22,000 t). Through an auction process, the CIP auctions the imported fertilizers to private distributors. To access these fertilizers at subsidized prices, CIP distributes vouchers to farmers through service providers. The farmers buy fertilizers from the distributor/dealer by presenting the vouchers. The distributor transacts the vouchers at the financial bank outlets which in turn collect from MINAGRI/MINICOM. Estimates suggest that as a result of these efforts, the national average fertilizer use per year has increased from 8 Kg/Ha to 23 Kg/Ha in 2010^8(*)

2.2.1 Effect of the use of fertilizers on food security

Rwanda has implemented several programs to increase productivity in the agriculture sector, including working closely with IFDC on projects to promote ISFM and increase fertilizer use. IFDC and the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI) have collaborated to improve agricultural production and increase agribusiness activity and farm wage employment. Increasing fertilizer use in Rwanda has contributed to poverty reduction and improved the livelihoods of many Rwandan smallholder farmers. Fertilizer use more than doubled, from 18 percent to 38.3 percent. (In one province the use of fertilizer was nearly 54 percent^9(*).

Through bulk orders, CIP imported fertilizers and distributed to farmers through various service providers. About 83% of fertilizers were used by farmers growing maize, wheat, rice and potato. In 2009, CIP imported 14,427 tons and distributed to maize and wheat Growers at subsidized rates (50%) the overhead costs (transportation and administrative Costs) from Mombasa to rural

Areas were covered by the government. CIP continued to import and distribute in 2010 (33,500 t) and 2011 (22,000 t).

Through an auction process, the CIP auctions imported fertilizers to private distributors. To access these fertilizers at subsidized prices, CIP distributes vouchers to farmers through service providers. The farmers buy fertilizers from the distributor/dealer by presenting the vouchers. The distributor transacts the vouchers at the financial bank outlets which in turn collect from MINAGRI/ MINICOM. Estimates suggest that as a result of these efforts, the national average fertilizer use per year has increased from 8 Kg/Ha to 23 Kg/Ha in 2010

2.2.3. Pesticides

Pesticides are substances meant for attracting, seducing, destroying or diminish any pest they are a class of biocide. The most common use of pesticides is as plant protection products (also known as crop protection products), which in general protect plants from damaging influences such as weeds, diseases or insects.

2.2.3.1 Integrated Pest and Disease Management

With the sudden growth in density of cropping under intensification program, the pressure from pests and diseases has started to influence yield levels. In rice for example, epidemics of blast disease and hoppers occur frequently in different marshlands. To combat the pests and diseases, smallholder farmer needs appropriate pesticides that can reduce the impact on yields. The CIP shall take initiatives to ensure delivery of pesticides in rural areas through the same delivery route of fertilizers. The extension service shall focus more on creating the awareness of the type of combat measures that the farmers need to take. Wherever possible, integration of biological controls and other pest management practices that can provide the sustainability under intensification process should be explored.

«Pesticides are important for crops and without them it is hard to get good harvest, but they can also be dangerous for human life once not well used because they are poisonous, that is why we urge farmers to handle them cautiously,»^10(*)

2.2.4 Food security

The Rome Declaration on World Food Security and the World Food Summit Plan of Action, convened by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, resolved that «food security exists when all people, at all times, have physical and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food to meet their provisions needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life Broadly, the concept of food security is built on three pillars:

Sufficient quantities of food are available to people on a regular basis; Food availability to the people can be through own production, purchases, Food Aid or gifts

People have sufficient resources to obtain appropriate foods for a nutritious diet;

Unfortunately, attainment of self sufficiency does not automatically imply that household food security is achieved. Empirical evidence shows that solving the food security issue from production (Supply side) point of view, while overlooking the purchasing power (demand side) of the people, does not solve the food security problem, with regard to accessibility of sufficient food by vulnerable groups (KIPPRA, 2007)

People have sufficient knowledge of nutrition and care practices and access to adequate water and sanitation to derive sustenance food. There is a direct and cyclical relationship between poverty and food insecurity, whereby poverty contributes to food insecurity, which contributes to poor nutrition, health, and cognitive development, which in turn contribute to poverty

2.2.4.1. Nutritional security & income have improved

Through livestock ownership and productivity initiatives led by the government of Rwanda currently revealed that Nutritional security & income have improved through the following points:

2.2.4.2 One cow per poor family

The One Cow per Poor Family initiative was introduced by President Paul KAGAME, to increase income of the poor. The goal of this program was in twofold:

As of 15 April 2008, the program has distributed more than 16,700 cows since 2006. This program contributed to the increase in agricultural production that leads to better farm income and improved food security and human health

2.2.4.3 Small Ruminants

2.2.4.4 School feeding and kitchen gardens in the most vulnerable

2.2.5 Improved Seeds

The use of improved seeds was not previously measured; however, nearly 19 percent of households use them now to augment increases in productivity of these crops, CIP imported improved seeds from neighboring countries such as Kenya and Tanzania. In 2008, 765 tons of seeds of maize and wheat were imported for cultivation in season A. The amount gradually increased from 1200 t in 2009 A to 3512 t in 2011 A.

In addition, improved planting materials (cuttings) of cassava and potato were also distributed to farmers. Under CIP, the use of improved seeds by farmers has risen from 3% to 40%. By encouraging farmers to use improved seeds, CIP has substantially increased the local demand and the capacity for seed production. With the exception of hybrid seeds, the open pollinated varieties of maize and self pollinated varieties of wheat, rice and beans are multiplied by public (RAB) and entrepreneurial farmers in the country^11(*)

CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction

This chapter gives a detailed presentation of the tools and techniques that were used to investigate the research issues in the field. It includes spelling out the area of the study and study population. It further describes the methods and techniques used in the choosing the sample size and selection instruments like questionnaire, interviews and documentation were used. It also includes data processing, analysis finally this chapter provides the back ground against which the findings and conclusions of the study were examined and appreciated regarding their reliability and validity.

This study was conducted on two categories of the citizens. They include local leaders and farmers. The questionnaire was the core tool used to collect data. However, interviews for local leaders were used to complement quantitative data. More specifically, a questionnaire were used to measure the use of agricultural inputs in their agricultural activities and local leaders were interviewed in their respective office as they have relevant knowledge on the use of agricultural inputs in the areas of concern

3.2 Sources of data

The study is based on both primary and secondary data sources of information. Primary data for this research were collected through interview guide for local leaders and distribution of questionnaire to local farmers and secondary data were obtained trough different reports, journals and distinctive official websites and other documents considered necessary for this study were also consulted

3.3 Primary data

Most of data required to answer and validate the research questions were collected from Primary source to generate the required data from the primary source, different methodological approach such as interview questions and questionnaire were employed to local farmers and local leaders of CYANIKA Sector

3.4 Secondary data

Secondary data were obtained through reading and review of published and unpublished documents, reports journals, newspapers and policy reports relevant to the study referred to. Secondary data sources for this research work were drawn from the official reports such as EDPRS I, EICV3, CFSVA, and FNSMS, NAS 2008 among the others.Other documents considered necessary for this study were also consulted

3.5 Study population12(*)

The population under study is the total population of CYANIKA Sector of BUREREA District. CYANIKA Sector is among the 17 sectors of BURERA District and this is one of 5 Districts of the Northern Province created by the organic law n°29/2005 dated on 12/23/2005 related to administrative entities of the Republic of Rwanda. The district is divided into 17 sectors. It has 69 cells, 571 villages, 339,200 habitants grouped in 64.5 square kilometers

CYANIKA Sector is located between RUGARAMA Sector and Republic of Uganda it touches Virunga national park. It is divided into 6 cells such as GASIZA, KABYINIRO, GISOVU, KAGITEGA, KAMANYANA, and NYAGAHINGA, 52 villages, 27,907 habitants with 52.6% are women and 47.4% are men all grouped in 64.5 square kilometers

3.7 Population determination

As it has been indicated above, given the width of this topic under study, the population is also wide as it is located in rural areas where agriculture dominates. Despite the fact that the population under this study is derived from a selected farmers and local leaders

3.8 Sample size and selection techniques

While selecting the sample size of the study; the researcher purposively consulted 7 respondents particularly as local leaders and 89 local farmers. Data was collected from the study population due to the reasons of necessary and convenience.

To determine the sample size of the study, we have used the technique of corrected sample proposed by Alain Bouchard and since the population under study does not constitute homogeneous group then stratified sampling techniques was applied so as to obtain a representative sample

3.8.1 Stratified sampling

The study population was stratified into two strata; one stratum was comprised of local leaders and local farmers around the sector. From these two strata, the researcher used both simple random and purposive sampling techniques as these enabled us to select respondents who could provide the information needed for the study. In this study Local farmer's selection was done using simple random sampling from the list of households available at the cell level. While purposive sampling in this study was used to select local leaders

From the official website of BURERA District, the total number of population of CYANIKA sector is 29,907. From this number, we have calculated our sample size using Alain Bouchard formula. For the sample size, we have used the technique of corrected sample proposed by Alain Bouchard quoted by MBONYINKEBE, 2011. In this formula, the author suggest that if the population is greater than ten thousand, the corrected sample is ninety six (96) individuals whereas for the population less than one hundred thousand, the sample will be calculated by the following formula:

Where nc = corrected sample size N=Total population of the sector n=corrected sample

Therefore, the study will focus on 96 respondents including 7 local leaders and the rest will be local farmers the sample provides an adequate figure for undertaking statistical analysis that falls within the defined confidence levels in the limited boundaries of CYANIKA Sector in BURERA District

3.9 Allocation of sample (quantitative survey) per cell

As our study concerns people from CYANIKA sector, made up of 6 cells, we have calculated the sample size by cell using Javeau Formula as follows

With ni =sample size by cell Ni=population by cell nc =corrected sample N=population of CYANIKA sector. Then from the number of population per cell, we have calculated the sample size per cell

No	Cells	Population	Sampling by Population	Household	Sampling by HH
1	GASIZA	5176	13	1089	13
2	KABYINIRO	6128	15	1279	16
3	GISOVU	5412	17	1485	18
4	KAGITEGA	6697	17	1372	17
5	KAMANYANA	6812	20	1722	21
6	NYAGAHINGA	7841	14	814	10
TOTAL		33,217	96	7,761	96

3.10 Elaboration of the Questionnaire

We first contacted the local authorities to provide information on the environment of the study and technical agronomists for pre survey to gather information, before developing a survey questionnaire. The field visit to the study area was made for better adapt the questionnaire to the reality and achieve our objective. An interview with local farmers was used to collect information for the study. The questionnaire was written in English translated into Kinyarwanda to facilitate communication between interviewer and the respondent. 89 respondents filled the questionnaire.

3.11 Interview Schedule

In this study 7 respondent were interviewed. The questions were prepared and read to the respondents then the answers recorded. This was done face to face between the interviewer and the respondents conducted for the purpose of obtaining the information related to the topic.

3.12.Method of Data Analysis

Analysis of data provides sense for the Data collected during the field work. The research strategies employed for this study combine both qualitative and quantitative methods.

3.13. Qualitative analysis

Most of answers asked to farmers were qualitative. But through this method, I obtained the information that related to the feelings and personal experience of farmer to the way that the use of agricultural inputs has promoted food production in the area.

3.14. Quantitative analysis

I used methods to measure the phenomena that can be expressed in quantity. I also used mathematical and statistical symbol to summarize the economic information through this method, I was able to analyze various variables to get searched information.

3.15. Data processing and analysis

After collecting all information, data were processed and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Microsoft Excel . After the data entry, and data cleaning, graphs and tables were generated based on the tabulation plan that include views of the respondents on the role of fertilizers, pesticides and improved seeds in increasing food production and therefore, insuring food security

The Data analysis were done in the context of the problem studied, the objectives and the research questions that were formulated at the beginning of the study and literature reviewed

CHAPTER ROUR: PRESENTATION OF THE FINDINGS

4.1. Introduction

This chapter presents findings of the field study and their interpretation. The findings are presented and analyzed in the context of the problem studied, the objectives and the research questions that were formulated at the beginning of the study and literature reviewed. The study was intended to establish the «The role of the use of improved agricultural practices in ensuring food security in Rwanda», with the particular case study on CYANIKA sector, BURERA District

4.2. Demographic perspective

For purposes of objectivity, the researcher focused on both female and male respondents Socio-demographic characteristics. This section presents some socio-demographic characteristics of respondents with a focus on their gender, Head of Household, Livelihood activity and level of education.

Table 1: Respondents' demographics per gender, Head of Household, Livelihood activity and level of education

Gender		Head of Household		Livelihood activity		Level of education
Male	46.87%	Man	32.29%	Agriculture	55.20%	Primary	37.50%
Female	53.12%	Women	41.66%	Livestock	17.70%	Secondary	10.41%
Total	100%	Elder	13.54%	Both	12.50%	University	7.29%

		Non married	9.37%	State agent	10.41%	Vocation	9.37%
		Children	3.12%	Other	4.16%	None	35.41%
		Total	100%	Total	100%	Total	100%

With regard to the head of household, the majority of them were headed by women, man, elder, non married and children under 18years with 41.66%, 32.29%, 13.54%, 9.37%, and 3.12% respectively

As far as the education level is concerned, 35.41% of the respondents do not have a primary school certificate while 37.50% have it. Almost 10.41% of respondents in this category have attended secondary schools and 7.29% have a higher learning education degree. Only 9.37% of respondents in this category are holders of a vocation training certificates.

4.3.: Proportion (%) of respondents views on the cause of low productivity, who decide to harvest the production, who decide to sell/consume the production and whether they are allowed to choose a buyer they want (in the period of 2012-2013)

Cause of low production		Decision to consume or sell		Member of cooperative
low level of using fertilizers	14.58%	head of cooperative	46.87%	yes	76.04%
small land	44.79%	public authorities	26.04%	no	23.95%
use of traditional methods	20.83%	head of household	27.08%	Free to harvest
low level of using improved seeds	12.50%			yes	66.66%
low level of using insect killer	7.29%			no	33.33%

The majority of the respondents (44.7%) said that the productivity in CYANIKA sector is affiliated to the small land of cultivation and the use of traditional tools in their agricultural activities (20.83%). However, few respondents (7.29%) revealed that it is attributed to the low use of pesticides.

66.66% of participants in this study reflect that they decide for themselves to harvest their production while 33.33% said that someone else decide for themselves. The majority (76.04%) of the sample size surveyed reflects by the fact that are the members of farmers cooperatives on the other side, 66.66% of them said that the Head of cooperative decide for themselves when and how to harvest while 26.04% reported their administrative authorities and lastly, 77.08% reported a problem of not allowed to choose the buyer when they want to sell or to consume their production

4.4. Respondents view on the use of improved seeds, pesticides and fertilizers

The information about the use of agricultural inputs was very important in this study because it helps us to figure out how the use of fertilizers has helped farmers to improve food production, improved seeds in this study was to help us find out their contribution in promoting food security and it was also very important in this study to examine the role of the use of pesticides to increase production in rural area of CYANI sector

This study shows that around 71% of the household surveyed had used improved seeds in last two years while 29% they didn't. From those who reported to use improved seeds, 19.7% start to use them before 2007, 36.4% and 43.7% started to use them between 2007- 2010 and between 2010 -2013 respectively

Again referring to the above figure, it is clear that 46.8% of the sample surveyed have used pesticides in last two years while 53.1% they didn't. From those who reported to use pesticides, almost 19% start to use them before 2007 where 33% started to use the between 2007 and 2010 while about 48% started between 2010 to 2013

Finally, approximately 67% of the household surveyed use fertilizers while 33% they didn't. from those who reported to use fertilizers, 68% start to use them before 2007 (the year by which MINAGRI developed the Crop Intensification Program (CIP) with the aim of increasing agricultural productivity and food security in Rwanda), 20% started to use the between 2007 and 2010 while 12% started between 2010 to 2013 This shows that there is an increasing trend in the use of agricultural inputs well done to the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources through the Crop Intensification Program (CIP) established in 2007

4.5. Respondent's view on the crops grown before and after the use of fertilizers

In this aspect we would like to analyze role of the use of fertilizers based on the crop grown before and after they start to use this agricultural input. The table below examines the respondent's views about this information

Figure 3: The proportions of crops grow before and after the use of fertilizers

The results of the current study highlighted the perceptions of the use of fertilizers. It revealed that 41.6%%, 29.2% reported that Irish potatoes and beans respectively were their favorite crops before the use of fertilizers and after, Irish potatoes and beans continue to be the major crops and the rates has increased whether for Irish potatoes, beans and sorghum but also an introduction of a new crop namely banana that was at the rate of 5.2% of cultivation

4.6. Observations on the crop production before and after the use of Improved agricultural practices

The observation on these variables (inputs) will help us to examine the impact of agricultural inputs on the availability of food production based on the perception of the respondent on each of the three inputs namely Fertilizers, improved seeds and insecticides around CYANIKA Sector

Figure 4: The percentages of production before and after the use of agricultural inputs

§ There was no significant improvement observed on the HH that were producing between 100-300kg before and after the use of fertilizers (40.76% to 40.62% respectively)

§ Due to the use of fertilizers, HH that their harvest was in the range of 300-500kg, were raised from 40.66% to 45.62% before and after the use of fertilizers

§ It is also shown by looking at the above graph, HH that were producing above 1000Kh (Tone) before and after the use of fertilizers, was significantly increased from 14.5% to 18.7% respectively

§ On the use of improved seeds, the above table shows that HH that were producing between 100-300kg before and after the use of improved seeds shifted from 37.5% to 38.5% respectively which indicate an tremendous increment in the production because more HH shifted from this group to the next (100-300kg to 300-500kg respectively)

§ Due to the use of improved seeds, HH that harvested between 300-500g and above tones of production, the proportions indicate that there is a considerable increase in the farmer's production (seen the above graph)

§ By comparing before and after the use of pesticides, there is an increase in production among HH that were producing between 100-300kg and 300-500kg but on the third group (above 100kg/1 tone) was not improved

Figure 5: The proportion of the overall production before and after each agricultural input

Looking at the graph above, it shows a remarkable improvement on the food production based on use of fertilizers and improved seeds where the rates was shifted from 89.28% to 92.50% for fertilizers and from 85.89% to 89.81% for improved seeds respectively in the year 2002-2013 while looking at the pesticides, there was no improvement

Once we were interest to find out the role of the use fertilizers and improved seeds and pesticides in increasing food production, it is clear that they have helped much the farmers to raise their agricultural production

4.7. Observations on food security

Food security is considered as major component of welfare of individual or family. As far as the Food security level is concerned, we considered the number of meals taken per day, Satisfaction of a HH in food, market price of food crops around CYANIKA, % of Food production harvested before and after the use of agricultural input. This indicator was considered to see how the situation of food security before and after the use of agricultural input was looking

4.8 Situation of Food security in Cyanika Sector

Based on the Rome Declaration on World Food Security and the World Food Summit Plan of Action, convened by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, resolved that «food security exists when all people, at all times, have physical and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food to meet their provisions needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life Broadly, food security is built on 3 pillars: Availability, accessibility, utilization

Satisfaction of a HH in food?		Number of times a household get food per day		market price of food crops around cyanika Sector		% of Food production harvested before and after the use of agricultural input
	%	Number	%	Level	%		Before	After
yes	69.79%	1 time	36.45%	high price	25%	Fertilizers	The production was low (see Figs.)	the production has increased (see Figs.)
no	30.20%	2 times	56.25%	medium price	75%	Improved inputs
Total	100%	3 times	7.29%	Total	100%	Pesticides
		Total	100%

As it is indicated in the table above, 36.45% of respondents took one meal per day. Apparently, number of people who took one meal per day seems to be poor, 56.25% took two meals while only 7.29% took three meals per day. Again 25% reported that the market prices are high around CYANIKA market which impedes them to purchase food while 75% reported to be satisfied with the market price.

Great number of respondents affirmed that number of the crop production has increased because of the use of agricultural inputs. Food is one of physiological needs and then if there is food security, it is considered as mirror of improvement of living conditions of the population.

4.9. Challenges faced by farmers in the process of applying agricultural inputs and Suggestions of farmers to improve the use of agricultural inputs

Among the HH selected in this survey, the respondent addressed different challenges that prevent them in increasing their own production and improves their food security and also the proposed Suggestions to improve the use of agricultural inputs

On the bellow graph, there are a proportion of the respondents on challenges and suggestions

Challenges faced by farmers		%
Climate change		43.75%
Conservation of production		11.45%
Price change		12.50%
High cost of inputs		32.29%
Suggestions Proposed		%
Increasing loan to farmers		21.87%
BDF funds and others( MINAGRI price project) should pass their funds through UMURENGE SACCO for easy access		14.58%
Increase the quantity of inputs (fertilizers, selected seeds, pestcides)		33.33%

4.9.1. Challenges faced by farmers in the process of applying agricultural inputs

Referring to the above graph, 43.75% reported that the main problem they have faced is the climate change followed by the agricultural inputs that are not easily accessible (32.29%), 12.5% said that they are not happy with the changes of the market price of crop production, 11.45% showed that the conservation of crop harvested is the major challenge and finally, the big number of HH surveyed reported that climate change is the driving factor that prevent them to improve their crop production.

4.9.2. Suggestions of farmers to improve the use of agricultural inputs

The above graph indicates clearly the needs/suggestion that can help them to improve their crop production accessibility trough market price (purchasing power of the HH), and finally the food utilizations. Based on this a HH will get a better living condition

- 30.20% suggested that government should put more efforts to strengthen the land use consolidation program to facilitate farmers increase their production

- 33.33% reported that, they wish the increase of quantity of agricultural inputs will sustain the production and solve the food security problem

- 14.58% the funds that the government provide for farmers such as BDF, MINAGRI PRICE PROJECT among the others should pass through the UMURENGE SACCO for easy access

- 21.87% of the total HH surveyed reported that loans for farmers are still low that government should emphasize in how to increase them to facilitate farmers in purchasing agricultural inputs

CHAPTER FIVE: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.

5.1 Conclusion

The research entitled «The role of the use of improved agricultural practices in ensuring food security in Rwanda» the research was conducted under three objectives:

4. To find out how the use of fertilizers has improved food production in rural area of CYANIKA Sector

5. To analyze the contribution of the use of improved seeds in promoting food security trough the increase in food production in rural area of CYANIKA Sector

6. To find out how the use of pesticides has helped to increase production in rural area CYANIKA sector

In collecting data, the researcher used a qualitative method and these techniques were useful: documentary sources, observation, and interview. After analyzing and interpreting data from different interviewees, we note the following:

In general, all inputs that emphasized in this study have played a big role in increasing food production and food security situation in CYANIKA Sector in the period of 2012-2013

There was a remarkable improvement on the food production based on use of fertilizers and improved seeds where the rates was shifted from 89.28% to 92.50% for fertilizers and from 85.89% to 89.81% for the use of improved seeds respectively in the year 2012-2013 while looking at the pesticides, the rate kept constant that means there was no considerable effect on food production made by farmers in the same period

It was revealed that 56.25% took two meals (lunch and supper). Apparently, number of people who took one meal per day seems to be poor (36.45% of respondents) while only 7.29% took three meals per day. Again 25% reported that the market prices are high around CYANIKA market which impedes them to purchase food while 75% reported to be satisfied with the market price.

Looking at HH food satisfaction, almost 70% said that they are satisfies themselves in food while 30% are not which means there is a significant availability and accessibility of food and evenly its use. This shows a very important improvement on people's living conditions So, the researcher found out that agricultural inputs played a big role in reducing food shortage and food security problems faced by CYANIKA Sector

Food insecurity in Rwanda is still affected by seasonal patterns where food consumption of households is better in March than in September due to the availability of food stocks from the season A harvest compared to September as it was indicated by FNSMS round 3, 2011. In this study, out of the sample selected, 30.2% of households living in CYANIKA could be considered to be food insecure because they reported to be not satisfied in food that affiliated to small land and relying only on one activity and this contribute much to low food consumption.

Compared to other areas of CYANIKA sector, Kagitega cell followed by Kabyiniro cell, reported a higher percentage of households that are not satisfied in food (82.35% and 81.2% respectively) and out of the HH reported to be not satisfied in food, 63.2% said that it is due to small land and 45.3% rely only on one activity

5.2 Recommendations

After analyzing and interpreting the findings, some recommendations were suggested to all people who work in the field of agriculture, stakeholders, NGOs and both public and private institutions should work hand in hand to reduce food shortage and food security problems due to the low production through strengthening the use of agricultural input

5.2.1 Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendation can be formulated:

- CYANIKA sector authorities need to strengthen but keeps improving the use of fertilizers among farmers because it helped them to increase their production

- CYANIKA sector authorities should increase the awareness campaign among the farmers to also use pesticides since 53.12% of the respondents said that they don't have access to pesticides and this impacted negatively the production

- CYANIKA sector authorities should ensure the good organization and quantity distribution of improved seeds among farmers of CYANIKA Sector since it is among the major driving factor that increase the HH food production

- CYANIKA sector authorities should increase the awareness campaign among the farmers on the land use consolidation program since 63.2% said that food shortage is due to landless and also HH with little land (<1ha or even none)

- Scaling up the livelihoods activities to avoid household living only on one activity rather practice a combination of activities. since this is among the major component that cause a HH food shortage especially in case of changes of weather condition

5.3 Future research

This research has concentrated on «the role of the use of improved agricultural practices in ensuring food security in Rwanda» but did not manage to cover the entire Rwandan agricultural sector

This has therefore paved away for future researchers to investigate the opportunities, constraints, challenges and government's role in straightening the Land consolidation program, agricultural input distribution and different measures that put in place for climate change protection

It is hoped that the information generated in this study can be of further help for researchers, investors, planners and government authorities of CYANIKA sector in particular

5.4 References

International Center for Soil Fertility and Agricultural Development, 2010, EVALUATION REPORT ON CROP INTENSIFICATION PROGRAM REPORTS, Kigali, Rwanda

MINAGRI, 2008, p 2, STRATEGY FOR RAPID AND SUSTAINABLE GROWTH OF FERTILIZERS USE IN RWANDA, (PASTA), Kigali

Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources and National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda, (2008), NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL SURVEY, Kigali, Rwanda

National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda, 2012, COMPREHENSIVE FOOD SECURITY VULNERABILITY ANALYSIS Kigali, Rwanda

National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda, 2013, COMPREHENSIVE FOOD SECURITY VULNERABILITY ANALYSIS (CFCVA) Kigali, Rwanda

APPENDICES

My name is Emmanuel NSENGIYUMVA I am a student at INES RUHENGERI in year five, faculty of Applied Sciences, department of Statistics Applied to Economy

I am doing a research on «the role of the use of agricultural inputs in ensuring food security» this research is for Academic purpose and it will only be conducted in CYANIKA sector. Your household has been selected randomly and I wish to interview only one member of the household. What we are going to discus shall never be published on your name instead, it will be mixed we others with a high level of confidentiality for all participant of this survey.

So don't hesitate to provide the true information on what you wish to say and in case you feel there is any question you don't want to reply, feel free there is no direct consequence to be applied

1. Section one: This section contains the information about Bio-data of Respondent

2. Section two: This section contains the information about agriculture productivity in rural areas of CYANIKA Sector

3. Section four: This section is for suggestions of farmers to the use of improved inputs in rural areas of CYANIKA Sector

SECTION A: This Section is intended to get information about Bio-data of Respondent

District.......................................Sector.......................................

Cell...........................................Village........................................

1. Did you use Fertilizers in the last two years in your agricultural activities?

7. By introducing the use of Fertilizers, what was the size of your land (plot)?

10. Did you use improved seeds in the last two years in your agricultural activities?

11. Did you use insect killer in the last two years in your agricultural activities?

SECTION C: This section is for suggestions of farmers on the use of agricultural inputs

14. What would you think the government can do to help farmers of this area of CYANIKA sector so as to increase agriculture production and become food secure?

a) .............................................................................................

b) .............................................................................................

c) .............................................................................................

15. Which challenges did you meet in the process of applying agricultural inputs in your agricultural activities?

a) .............................................................................................

b) .............................................................................................

c) ..........................................................................................

* ³ Comprehensive Food Security Vulnerability Analysis (CFCVA) report, released in December 2012

* ⁴ Evaluation Report on Crop Intensification Program (2010) International Center for Soil Fertility and Agricultural Development, Kigali

* ⁵ Coordinator of the Fertilizer Program at the ministry, Dr. Charles MUREKEZI

* ⁸ Evaluation Report on Crop Intensification Program and International Center for Soil Fertility and Agricultural Development reports, Kigali, 2010

* ¹⁰ Mbonigaba (DG/RAB) said in a three-day agricultural workshop in Musanze District, 30 September 2013)