Influence of Community Engagement on the Sustainability of Borehole Projects in Ruhango District, Rwanda

Sandrine Mutuzo & Wabala Samuel

University of Kigali

Email: sandrinemutuzo@gmail.com

Abstract: This study investigates the influence of community engagement in capacity-building initiatives on the sustainability of borehole projects in Ruhango District, Rwanda. Employing a descriptive research design, the study examines how community involvement in technical training, leadership development, and financial literacy programs impacts the long-term effectiveness and operational success of borehole water systems. The research is anchored in the Capacity-Building and Sustainability theories, which emphasize the importance of empowering local communities to effectively manage resources for sustainable development. A sample size of 269 respondents, including community members, local authorities, and project manager, was selected using stratified purposive sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and interviews, and the analysis was conducted using SPSS version 21. Correlation analysis revealed a positive but moderate correlation of 0.693 (p < 0.01) between community engagement in capacity-building initiatives and project sustainability, indicating that increased community participation in these initiatives is linked to greater project sustainability. The regression analysis further confirmed the statistically significant effect of capacity-building initiatives on project sustainability. Despite the positive relationship, the study identifies gaps in the effectiveness of the training programs, particularly in leadership and financial literacy, which are crucial for the long-term sustainability of borehole projects. In conclusion, while community engagement plays an important role in the sustainability of borehole projects, more targeted training in leadership and financial management is recommended to ensure long-term success.