Project Management Strategies and Implementation of Youth Development Projects Funded by Business Development Fund (BDF), Rwanda: A Case of Gasabo District

Benie Claudette Iriza & Nnamdi Madichie
University of Kigali
Email: benieclaudette@gmail.com

Abstract: This paper examined the impact of project management strategies on the implementation of youth development projects in Rwanda, which were funded by Business Development Fund (BDF). Specifically, it aimed to determine the effect of stakeholder collaboration and partnerships on the successful implementation of youth development projects funded by BDF. The study used a descriptive and correlational research design with a population of 229 individuals from youth development projects and a sample size of 146 respondents. Questionnaires and documentary review were used as instruments for data collection. Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews, and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23 was used to analyze the data. The findings indicated that stakeholder collaboration and partnerships significantly affect the implementation of youth development projects funded by BDF, with an adjusted r2 value of 0.737, explaining approximately 73% of the variations in implementation. The study concluded that the positive and very high correlation of 0.551 (55%) and the significant level at 0.01 (1%) with a p-value of 0.000 (0.0%) confirm a significant relationship between project management strategies and the implementation of youth development projects funded by BDF. The research suggested that the government should establish favorable policies, rules, regulations, and laws to govern project implementation. Additionally, it is recommended that the development of monitoring strategies to ensure successful project execution. Finally, BDF should expand access to credit to enhance the capacity of young entrepreneurs to create job opportunities. Financial support programs should include funds and business skills training, mentoring, counseling, and other relevant support services.