Fish farming in rural areas: the Case of Bwito Chiefdom Rutshuru: Analysis and Prospects

The fish pond scheme in the Bwito chiefdom is still far from being a success, as the early pioneers adopted an approach that did not encourage the local population to commit to sustaining the activities in the long term. This chiefdom faces serious problems, primarily relating to security, the backward mindset of the population, and a wait-and-see attitude towards humanitarian aid, amongst other issues. With 50.8 per cent of respondents stating that food insecurity, linked to the population's extreme poverty, prompted Mercy Corps to carry out activities in their community, whilst 49.1 per cent stated that Mercy Corps was concerned with meeting the expectations of its donors. 66.6 per cent of respondents said that Mercy Corps' activities would improve their standard of living, whilst 33.3 per cent said these activities would facilitate discussion and dialogue on peace whilst fishing amongst different social groups gathered around their thatched huts. It should be noted that the 'food for work' approach used to encourage the local population to work with Mercy Corps was not implemented effectively, as people became demotivated following the organisation's departure.