Daniel Gies Doctoral Thesis to UCAM - FSC Model Evaluation

This doctoral thesis critically evaluates the impact of the Farm Service Center (FSC) model on agro-dealer performance and smallholder farmer outcomes in Rwanda. Employing a mixed-methods research design with a strong quantitative emphasis, the study applies statistical analysis to examine the relationship between FSC investment and key indicators including agricultural productivity, business performance, access to inputs and services, and farmer resilience. The research integrates survey data, inferential statistical techniques, and qualitative stakeholder insights to assess the operational and institutional effectiveness of the FSC model within Rwanda’s evolving agricultural and rural finance ecosystem. Particular attention is given to the role of FSCs in supporting climate-smart agriculture, rural market development, and inclusive agricultural commercialization. The findings contribute to both academic literature and development practice by providing evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, development finance institutions, donors, and agricultural investment practitioners operating in emerging markets.