Assessing the effectiveness of citizen participation in stunting reduction in Bwishyura Sector , Karongi District .

Abstract

Stunting remains a major public health concern in Rwanda, especially in semi-urban and rural communities like Bwishyura Sector, Karongi District. Despite various national policies and programs aimed at reducing child malnutrition, persistent high rates of stunting indicate the need to evaluate the role of community engagement. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of citizen participation in stunting reduction efforts, focusing on how community members contribute to the identification, management, and implementation of stunting-related interventions. The research adopted a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data were collected through structured and semi-structured questionnaires from 194 participants, including parents/caregivers, community health workers (CHWs), civil society representatives, and local officials. Qualitative insights were gathered through interviews with key informants. Descriptive statistics and thematic content analysis were used to analyze the data. Findings revealed that citizen participation significantly enhances awareness, program implementation, and behavioral change related to child nutrition. There was a strong positive relationship between the level of community engagement and key stunting reduction outcomes, such as improved child growth monitoring, increased access to healthcare services, and better household feeding practices. However, barriers such as economic hardship, limited male involvement, and low collaboration with local authorities were noted. The study concludes that strengthening citizen participation is essential to achieving sustainable improvements in child nutrition and reducing stunting in Bwishyura. It recommends increased capacity-building, participatory planning, and targeted support for CHWs and vulnerable families.