Evaluation of the Role of Women's Agricultural Cooperatives in Improving Sustainable Food Security for Rural Households in Burundi: Evidence from the Bakenyezi Cooperative Tuje Hamwe in Cibitoke Commune

Abstract

This study assesses the role of women's agricultural cooperatives in strengthening sustainable food security for rural households in Burundi, focusing on a target population of 130 cooperative farmers in the Cibitoke commune. The survey was conducted in this area, followed by a statistical analysis including descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression. The main obstacles to food security and availability are limited access to agricultural inputs (70%), restricted access to agricultural financial activities (63%), low availability of improved seeds and a lack of arable land (38%), low levels of education (9%), and climate change (72%). The econometric model reveals significant positive effects of capacity building for cooperative members, agricultural extension services, and financial resources on income, while the level of education does not have a significant impact. These results highlight the imperative to improve access to credit, agricultural extension services and the adoption of improved varieties in order to increase profitability and local food security.