The Role of Development Partnerships in the Socio-Economic Development of Rwanda

This research examined the role of development partnerships towards the socio-economic development of Rwanda. The study used correlation design with a quantitative approach. The targeted sample size was 274 selected from 7 institutions including Ministry of Trade and Industry, Rwanda Development Board, ICT Chamber, Chamber of Tourism, Ministry of Education, Private Sector Federation and National Institute of Statistics, Rwanda. Stratified simple random sampling technique was used to select this sample. The close-ended questionnaire was used for collecting data. The validity of research instruments was determined by use of the content validity index. The results generated a content validity index of .93/93% which is considered very high. On the other hand, reliability was verified through the Cronbach Alpha coefficients (α=.883) for the 27 likert scale items. Data was analyzed through descriptive analysis (means and standard deviations) and inferential statistics (correlation and regression analysis). Out of the 274 targeted respondents, there was a response rate of 74.5% or 204 respondents. Research shows that capacity building has the most significant role in the socio-economic development of Rwanda between 2012 and 2022 (β=.709; p<.05). This is followed by development research which was identified as having a second significant role in the socio-economic development of Rwanda between 2012 and 2022 (β=.459; p<.05). However, regression findings show that development financing has no significant role in the socio-economic development of Rwanda in 2012 and 2022 (β=-.089; p>.05). The research recommends that there is need to ensure effective implementation of the Eco-Emploi program by securing sustainable funding, prioritizing infrastructure development, investing in capacity building, expanding development research, implementing regular program evaluations, and actively engaging stakeholders and beneficiaries in decision-making processes. The study presents profound significance for program practitioners to appreciate the critical role of development partnerships in socio-economic development. Similarly, other academicians will find the study valuable in benchmarking their studies on the same subject.