Assessing the Effect of Landscape Restoration Interventions on Irish Potato Productivity in Nyabihu District: A Case of Selected Cooperatives
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53819/81018102t2615Abstract
Land degradation and soil erosion threaten agricultural productivity in Rwanda’s Nyabihu District, particularly on steep slopes. This study assessed the effects of landscape restoration interventions on Irish potato productivity using a concurrent mixed-methods design. A sample of 177 smallholder farmers was selected from three cooperatives using Yamane’s formula, representing 55.3% of 320 households at a 95% confidence level and ±5% margin of error. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, correlation, and multiple linear regression, while qualitative data from key informant interviews underwent thematic analysis. Results showed that 79.5% of farmers had adopted at least one restoration intervention: radical terraces, progressive terraces, or agroforestry. Adopters achieved an average yield of 19,654 kg/ha, compared with 10,054 kg/ha among non-adopters, nearly doubling productivity. Regression analysis revealed significant positive effects (p<0.001) from radical terraces (+4,733 kg/ha; 37.1%), agroforestry (+4,049 kg/ha; 33.6%), and progressive terraces (+3,873 kg/ha; 31.0%). Control variables were statistically insignificant, indicating strong independent effects of restoration interventions. Qualitative findings confirmed improved soil stability, moisture retention, and yields, but identified labour intensity, inadequate maintenance, and ageing farmers as constraints. The study recommends integrated terracing and agroforestry, expanded farmer field schools for the 47.9% adopting only one intervention, and comprehensive support during the first three years after terrace construction to advance NST2’s target of 50% crop production growth by 2029.
Keywords: Nyabihu District, landscape restoration interventions, agricultural productivity, yield, and smallholder farmers.
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