Operation Wealth Creation and Rural Household Food Security in Ntungamo District: A Case of Rugarama Sub County. Descriptive Cross-Sectional Survey Design.

Abstract

Background

The provision of agricultural inputs plays a crucial role in improving farm productivity and ensuring food security for rural households. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the impact of agricultural input provision on crop yields and food security among rural households in Rugarama sub-county, Ntungamo District.

Methodology

The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional survey design using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. A sample of 141 respondents was selected through simple random and purposive sampling techniques, with data collected using questionnaires and interview guides. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically.

Results

130 respondents participated in this study; males were 80 (61.5%), while the females accounted for 50 (38.5%). 25(19.2%), were aged 20-29 years, 40(30.8%) were aged 30-39 years, 35(26.9%), were aged 40-49 years and 30(23.1%) above 50 years. Provision of Agricultural Inputs (β = 0.215, p-value = 0.001) has a positive and significant effect, indicating that increased input provision leads to higher crop production levels. Provision of Agricultural Inputs (β = 0.192, p-value = 0.002) has a positive and significant effect on livestock numbers and output. For household food stocks, the provision of Agricultural Inputs (β = 0.182, p-value = 0.006) significantly increases food stocks. For the food price index, the results show that Provision of Agricultural Inputs (β = 0.152, p-value = 0.031) significantly affects food prices, with a positive relationship suggesting that agricultural input provision helps stabilize food prices.

Conclusion

Provision of agricultural inputs under Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) has significantly improved food production in Rugarama Sub-County, though its impact is constrained by irregular supply, poor targeting, and inadequate sensitization.

Recommendation

Enhancing the consistency and coverage of OWC services, improving rural infrastructure, and ensuring equitable access to agricultural resources and markets.