Our Programs
At the Development & Research Institute for Vision & Empowerment (DRIVE), our programs are designed around the urgent needs of Rwanda’s vulnerable communities. We turn scientific research into action, building projects that improve agriculture, protect the environment, and create pathways out of poverty.
Our current focus areas are:
Agriculture & Agri-business
Agriculture remains the backbone of Rwanda’s economy, yet many smallholder farmers struggle with low productivity, hunger, and limited market access. DRIVE works with farmer cooperatives and vulnerable groups to improve food production, agri-business capacity, and market-oriented value chains.
Goals
- Strengthening food security by supporting innovative and climate-smart farming techniques.
- Training smallholder farmers and cooperatives to increase crop yields and reduce hunger.
- Development of agri-business models that connect farmers to markets and improve household incomes.
- Pilot and promotion of agricultural research innovations that can be scaled across rural communities.
Environment & Climate Change
Climate change is one of the greatest threats to Rwanda’s rural development. DRIVE promotes environmental conservation, adaptation strategies, and reforestation initiatives to help communities build resilience against environmental shocks.
Goals
- Promotion of reforestation and eco-friendly land use to restore degraded areas.
- Educating communities on climate adaptation practices such as soil protection, water management, and renewable energy.
- Implementation of research-based interventions that reduce the impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations.
- Collaboration with national and international partners to scale up environmental protection programs.
Health, Water & Sanitation
Clean water and proper sanitation are essential for public health, agricultural productivity, and climate resilience. DRIVE integrates water, hygiene, and sanitation education into its research and development programs to promote healthier communities.
Goals
- Improvement of health and access to safe drinking water in rural communities.
- Promotion of hygiene and sanitation awareness through education and outreach.
- Integration of water and sanitation solutions into agricultural programs to increase productivity.
- Supporting government and partner initiatives aimed at achieving national water and sanitation targets.
Poverty Alleviation & Socio-economic Inclusiveness
Poverty and social exclusion remain barriers to sustainable development. DRIVE is committed to empowering marginalized groups; including women, people with disabilities, youth, LGBTIQ, and rural farmers; through inclusive development programs that promote self-reliance.
Goals
- Supporting vulnerable populations to engage in income-generating activities.
- Strengthening farmer cooperatives and self-help groups into resilient economic actors.
- Promotion of education, skills development, and community empowerment initiatives.
- Advocacy for inclusive policies and practices that leave no one behind in development.
Our Commitment
Each of our programs is grounded in scientific research and evidence-based practice. By linking research findings to real-world action, we ensure that every intervention is not only effective today but also sustainable for future generations.