Abstract:
This research entitled “Study on the Implementation of International Development Projects for Sustainable Outcomes: The case study of Bugesera Natural Region Rural Infrastructure Support Project (PAIRB) ” was conducted to assess the level of sustainability of PAIRB activities when the funding period is over. The specific objectives were to find out the extent to which beneficiaries were involved at the initial stage of the project; to find out the level of participation of beneficiaries in project implementation; to identify the project means of funding after its closure and to evaluate the changes in living conditions of the PAIRB beneficiaries.
During this study, both qualitative and quantitative approaches were used by the researcher. The main method of data collection was a questionnaire which was administered to both PAIRB beneficiaries and to the project‟ implementers. In total one hundred questionnaires were distributed including ninety to PAIRB beneficiaries and ten to the project staff. In addition, unstructured interviews and discussions with especially the project team, were also used to complete and supplement the data collection.
Findings from the study revealed that beneficiaries were highly involved at the initial stage of the project in the preparation activities. The high level of involvement is seen also during the transition period. The two phases prepared well the project beneficiaries by empowering and equipping them with capabilities to sustain and maintain the project activities themselves, after the closing period.
Findings from the study also showed that the project does n‟t have any means of funding after the closing except the MINAGRI which took over the project activities for one more year. Therefore, the PAIRB has changed considerably the living standards of the Bugesera population. Thus, a number of recommendations were formulated so that the project outcomes could be sustainable.
