As Rwanda undergoes rapid urbanization, traditional gender roles are increasingly contested, redefined, and renegotiated. This study explores the evolving dynamics of masculinity, feminism, and family welfare roles in urban Rwanda, focusing on the perceptions of 41 social sciences students at the Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR). The research investigates how students conceptualize masculinity and feminism, and how these perceptions intersect with shifting familial responsibilities in cities. Guided by theoretical frameworks including Judith Butler’s gender performativity, Raewyn Connell’s hegemonic masculinity, and feminist perspectives on domestic labor, the study applies a cultural anthropology lens to analyze contemporary urban kinship and household structures. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining structured questionnaires with focus group discussions to gather both quantitative and qualitative insights. Statistical results indicate that 78% of respondents perceive masculinity as transforming, with emotional engagement and caregiving now seen as appropriate male roles. Furthermore, 85% confirm women’s economic empowerment, although 62% acknowledge ongoing societal resistance to female leadership within families. Respondents highlighted increased male participation in caregiving and domestic duties, while also noting persistent intergenerational tensions and cultural pressures. The findings suggest that urbanization, access to education, and exposure to global feminist discourses are fostering more egalitarian gender norms. Nevertheless, full gender parity in family welfare roles remains a work in progress. This study concludes that urban Rwandan households are transitioning toward shared responsibilities, and calls for gender-sensitive policies that reinforce these shifts. Future research should expand to peri-urban and rural contexts to deepen understanding of gender transformations across Rwanda.
Abstract: This study explores how the anthropological philosophy of self-reliance (kwigira) and resilience (ubudaheranwa) supports entrepreneurship and economic mobility at Enterprise Urwibutso Sina Gerard Ltd. The research examines how individuals transition from economic dependence to self-sufficiency and how businesses can contribute to economic independence. The study follows a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys, interviews, and case study analysis. A sample of 42 employees was selected from the permanent workers at Enterprise Urwibutso. Survey questionnaires collected data on income changes and business creation, while interviews provided insights into personal experiences of economic transition. Results show that 78% of surveyed employees experienced a significant income increase, while 65% started their own businesses after gaining financial stability. Additionally, 82% reported improved decision-making power in their financial lives, indicating reduced dependency. Furthermore, once employees started their businesses, Enterprise Urwibutso Sina Gerard Ltd became a buyer of their goods, further helping them to upgrade economically. However, 56% of respondents cited market competition as a challenge to further economic mobility. To sustain economic upgrading, policies should promote entrepreneurial training, market access, and financial support for small businesses. By fostering self-reliance and resilience, individuals can progressively shift to higher economic categories, ensuring long-term independence and growth.
Abstract: Despite Rwanda’s progress toward gender equity in education, female underrepresentation in science disciplines remains a concern. This study explores barriers and enablers influencing University-to-work transitions for female science students at the Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR). Using a mixed-methods approach, surveys, focus group discussions, and interviews with students, alumni, faculty, and employers, this research provides quantitative and qualitative insights. Findings reveal that 60% of CUR’s science students are female, with over 90% securing employment post-graduation, mainly in healthcare and education. Key enablers include academic support (82%), mentorship (74%), and financial sponsorships (68%). However, significant barriers persist: low self-esteem (56%), family-imposed gender norms (49%), and institutional biases (41%). Additional challenges include societal expectations (62%) and limited female role models in science careers (45%). Notably, CUR’s proactive gender equity initiatives have helped mitigate many of these constraints. The study concludes that the CUR model offers a replicable framework for improving female participation and transition into science careers. Policy recommendations include scaling holistic support systems, embedding inclusive and gender-responsive curricula, expanding mentorship networks, and conducting community sensitization to address socio-cultural obstacles and ensure sustainable gender equity in science education and employment.
Abstract: This study explores how accounting students at the Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR) engage with non-monetary resources in cooperative settings, emphasizing the role of social capital and communal value in shaping accounting perceptions and practices. The objective is to assess how students recognize and evaluate intangible resources such as trust, reciprocity, and solidarity within local cooperatives. The hypothesis proposes that students trained in conventional monetary-focused accounting frameworks undervalue social capital in economic reporting. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from a stratified random sample of 42 students out of a total population of 185. Research tools included structured questionnaires, focus group discussions, and participant observation. Findings show that 78.6% of respondents recognize the importance of social relationships in the functioning of cooperatives, while only 26.2% believe such non-monetary elements should be included in formal accounting reports. Furthermore, 61.9% expressed interest in alternative tools such as social audits, while 52.4% supported the integration of participatory budgeting in cooperative finance. Notably, 83.3% agreed that accounting education should include ethical and social dimensions that reflect communal realities. The results reveal a significant gap between accounting training and the socio-economic context of Rwandan cooperatives. The study concludes that integrating culturally sensitive and ethical approaches into accounting education is essential for preparing socially responsible professionals. This shift would allow financial reporting to reflect both tangible and intangible contributions, fostering inclusive development and enhancing the sustainability of cooperative models.
Abstract: This study explores the intersection between Catholic Social Teaching (CST) on human dignity and the Imago Dei with traditional Rwandan cultural values, aiming to assess how these concepts are understood and lived by theology students at the Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR). The central objective is to evaluate students' perceptions of human dignity, moral leadership, and community values through the lens of both CST and Rwandan anthropology. The hypothesis is that there is a strong complementarity between CST principles and Rwandan cultural values, which can serve as a foundation for ethical leadership and social justice in Rwanda. The study employed a qualitative-quantitative approach, utilizing a structured questionnaire administered to 39 theology students. The questionnaire included closed and open-ended questions designed to capture students’ understanding of human dignity, their view on the role of families and elders, and their perception of the Church's contribution to justice and reconciliation. Preliminary results reveal the following: 92% of students affirmed that human dignity is rooted in the Imago Dei and is compatible with Rwandan communal identity (ubuntu). 87% recognized the family and elders as primary agents of moral formation. 90% acknowledged the Church’s critical role in promoting justice and healing societal wounds. Furthermore, 85% agreed that integrating CST and Rwandan cultural values strengthens moral leadership and peacebuilding. The findings show that students perceive a strong synergy between theological and cultural approaches to human dignity, offering a rich foundation for fostering ethical responsibility and inclusive development in Rwandan society.
Abstract: Visually impaired people face tremendous challenges in navigating their environment in a safe and independent way. As a response to these challenges, this project provides the Smart Glasses for Visually Impaired People, an assistive device to enhance mobility, safety, and emergency y communication. The system utilizes ultrasonic sensors, ESP32 Wi-Fi module, GPS module, GSM module, vibration motor and LiPo battery to provide real-time obstacle detection, GPS navigation n, and emergency SMS notification n. The ultrasonic sensors detect objects at a distance of up to 1 meter, and the system provides haptic (vibration) and audio feedback to alert the user. During an emergency, the GSM module (A6) sends an SMS alert along with GPS coordinates to a pre-registered contact, allowing remote assistance. The ESP32 module sends real-time location and sensor data to Thing Speak, allowing remote tracking of the user's movement. The data from thingspeak retrieved to the web page dashboard. The system is energy-efficient, low-cost, and portable, suitable for the visually impaired. It offers real-time obstacle detection, IoT-based remote tracking, and emergency response, significant ly improving user safety and mobility. The system was successfully tested and demonstrated high accuracy in obstacle detection and seamless GSM-GPS communication.
Abstract: The agricultural sector in KAMONYI District, Rwanda, faces significant post-harvest losses, particularly in maize storage, due to inadequate monitoring and management of storage conditions. This project aims to develop and implement an intelligent maize crop storage system using the Blynk cloud platform to ad- dress these challenges. The system utilizes NodeMcu, DHT11 sensors and gas detectors to monitor crucial storage parameters such as temperature, humidity, CO2 levels and Light detector. During our research, we visited a store called Rumbuka Seeds in Kamonyi District, where the current system fills maize into slots. To enhance this system, we propose adding DHT11 sensors, LDR sensor and MQ2 and different actuators like lamp, heater and fan in order to maintain optimal storage conditions. Additionally, the system will be integrated with Blynk to monitor and control the collected data, enabling more effective management of storage conditions. NodeMcu, a microcontroller with Wi-Fi capability, serves as the core unit, collecting data from sensors. These data are then transmitted to the Blynk cloud server, where they are processed and stored in real-time. Farmers can access this data through a user-friendly mobile interface provided by the Blynk application. This interface allows them to view real-time data, analyze historical trends, and receive alerts, facilitating timely interventions without needing to be physically present at the storage site. By continuously monitoring storage conditions and offering actionable insights, the smart maize storage system seeks to reduce spoilage and post-harvest losses, promote sustainable storage practices, and ulti- mately enhance the productivity and profitability of maize farming in Kamonyi District. The inclusion of alert systems within the Blynk app ensures that farmers are promptly informed of any adverse conditions, allowing for swift corrective actions. This innovative approach leverages IoT technology and the Blynk cloud to provide a more efficient and reliable maize storage solution, addressing a critical need in the re- gion's agricultural sector.
Abstract: This study explores the anthropology of adult faith formation through Sunday homilies in the cathedral parish of Butare. Its objective is to assess how culturally grounded homilies contribute to adult catechesis, social development, and spiritual maturity. The central hypothesis posits that adult parishioners engage more deeply with homilies when these integrate elements of Rwandan cultural anthropology, such as oral tradition, memory, and communal storytelling. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining content analysis, anthropological observation, and survey techniques. Five Sunday homilies were analyzed for their incorporation of adult-centered themes, historical references, reconciliation, and cultural narratives. Forty-five CUR students responded to a questionnaire on their perceptions of Sunday Mass homilies. Additionally, structured interviews were conducted to gather broader insights into the perceived effectiveness of homilies in adult faith formation. The findings reveal that 67% of adult respondents reported improved understanding when cultural references were used; 71% felt spiritually strengthened by such homilies, while 48% noted that homilies lacked sufficient practical life application. Community interviews highlighted that elders particularly value homilies aligned with traditional wisdom and moral instruction. The study concludes that integrating anthropology into theological formation enhances both the delivery and reception of adult catechesis. It underscores the need for training theologians in adult-focused catechetical pedagogy that respects cultural contexts. These findings suggest new mission opportunities at the intersection of theology and anthropology to deepen adult faith in Rwandan communities.
Abstract: This research explores how Sunday homilies reflect and convey Catholic Social Teaching (CST) through a cultural-anthropological lens. The objective is to assess how homilies engage with Rwandan anthropological values, such as ubumwe (unity), Ubuntu (human dignity), and gukunda umurimo (dignity of work), to promote social transformation. The hypothesis is that culturally contextualized CST homilies have a measurable influence on people’s social consciousness and engagement. A total of 100 CUR students participated in a survey, and 30 were involved in focus groups discussing homilies heard over 10 Sundays homilies in cathedral parish of Butare and its centrales. Homilies were also thematically analyzed for CST principles. Statistical analysis revealed that 81% of students recalled homilies that explicitly addressed justice or reconciliation themes, and 59% indicated they took action as a result of such preaching. Furthermore, 74% affirmed that the inclusion of local wisdom made the homily more compelling. However, only 35% of students found consistent application of CST in Sunday preaching. The study concludes that while CST themes are often present in Sunday homilies, their deeper cultural embodiment varies by preacher and location. The integration of Rwandan anthropological values with CST in preaching strengthens faith-based ethical action. The research recommends structured training for clergy and theology students on CST and indigenous ethical frameworks, enhancing the transformative power of Sunday homilies among young Catholic leaders.
Abstract: This study explores the Biblical Foundations and Catholic Social Teaching (CST) in Promoting Integral Human Development through a case study of the Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR). The objective is to assess how theology students understand, internalize, and apply the principles of CST in their formation and pastoral engagement. The central hypothesis is that while students value integral human development, there exists a gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application due to curricular limitations and socio-cultural challenges. The main research question is: To what extent are biblical and CST principles integrated into the theological and pastoral training of CUR students, and how does this influence their role in promoting human development? Data was collected through a mixed-method approach combining surveys (n=120) and focus group discussions with theology students. Techniques included thematic content analysis and descriptive statistics. Findings reveal that 86% of respondents associate integral human development with the holistic well-being of the person, rooted in dignity and justice. 74% correctly identified scriptural references supporting the common good and solidarity. However, only 41% were familiar with key CST documents such as Populorum Progressio and Caritas in Veritate. While 62% reported involvement in outreach or youth initiatives, only 38% believed CST principles were strongly integrated into their academic formation. Students perceive CUR as a moral model (72%) but expect enhanced curricular emphasis on CST and practical field experiences. The study concludes that strengthening CST integration in theological education at CUR is essential for forming catechists as transformative agents of development in Rwandan society.
Abstract: This study explores the Biblical Foundations and Catholic Social Teaching (CST) in Promoting Integral Human Development through a case study of the Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR). The objective is to assess how theology students understand, internalize, and apply the principles of CST in their formation and pastoral engagement. The central hypothesis is that while students value integral human development, there exists a gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application due to curricular limitations and socio-cultural challenges. The main research question is: To what extent are biblical and CST principles integrated into the theological and pastoral training of CUR students, and how does this influence their role in promoting human development? Data was collected through a mixed-method approach combining surveys (n=120) and focus group discussions with theology students. Techniques included thematic content analysis and descriptive statistics. Findings reveal that 86% of respondents associate integral human development with the holistic well-being of the person, rooted in dignity and justice. 74% correctly identified scriptural references supporting the common good and solidarity. However, only 41% were familiar with key CST documents such as Populorum Progressio and Caritas in Veritate. While 62% reported involvement in outreach or youth initiatives, only 38% believed CST principles were strongly integrated into their academic formation. Students perceive CUR as a moral model (72%) but expect enhanced curricular emphasis on CST and practical field experiences. The study concludes that strengthening CST integration in theological education at CUR is essential for forming catechists as transformative agents of development in Rwandan society.
Waste management remains a global challenge, particularly in Rwanda’s rural areas, where inadequate systems lead to environmental degradation, health risks, and economic losses. This study focused on improving waste management in Byumba through Gicumbi Agriculture Production Market (GAPM) Ltd. Data was collected from 14 GAPM staff and beneficiaries using questionnaires and analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively. Findings revealed that GAPM Ltd employs various waste management techniques, including landfill (100%), re-use (100%), recycling (100%), disposal (71.2%), composting (64.3%), and recovery (57.1%). These methods contribute to a circular economy by creating jobs (100%), protecting the environment (100%), conserving resources (85.7%), improving social well-being and health (78.6%), generating economic benefits (71.4%), and fostering community engagement (57.1%). The study confirms that GAPM Ltd’s waste management strategies significantly enhance sustainability. It recommends that the government strengthen awareness campaigns to educate communities on proper waste management and its crucial role in socio-economic development, ensuring long-term environmental protection and economic growth in rural areas.
International Journal of Research in Sociology and Anthropology (IJRSA) Volume 9, Issue 1, 2024, PP 28-36 ISSN 2454-8677 https://doi.org/10.20431/2454-8677.0901004 www.arcjournals.org International Journal of Research in Sociology and Anthropology (IJRSA) Page | 28 Emerging Technologies and Disaster Management in Radio Ishingiro: A Descriptive Study of Digital Anthropology in Tandem with Social Communication Lucien HAKIZIMANA1*, Jorge Marx GÓMEZ2 1Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR), Rwanda 2University of Oldenburg, Germany 1. INTRODUCTION Gicumbi District as a mountainous area faces the disasters like floods, landslide, and drought. In fact, those disasters have negative effects on the communities like the loss of human lives, injury or other health impacts, property damages, loss of livelihoods, social and economic disruption, or environmental damages (Kumar& Jan 2018). Those effects are encouraged by the poor information about disaster management influenced by inappropriate social communication. Moreover, the disaster management is not well known by the community due to limited use of emerging technologies on disaster management. Despite the disasters occurred in Gicumbi, disaster management (DM) has received little attention from the interdisciplinary accounting community (Wallace &Balogh, 2018). A key aspect of DM theory and practices is related to the information systems such as Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), remote sensing, cloud computing, social media communication (Goolsby2010), used to support decision-making and to measure, manage and report the performance of the whole DM cycle. In Rwanda, community radios like Ishingiro Radio play a key role in informing the community and developing their capacities of copying with digital information. The exchange of information and cooperation at the household level is the core idea of emerging technologies (Cottle 2014). The Abstract: This study aimed at examining the emerging technologies used by Radio Ishingiro in disaster management. The study used the descriptive research design. The target population under this study included employees of Radio Ishingiro and some stakeholders in their coverage zone of Gicumbi. The sample size under this study was made up of 20 respondents determined through the purposive sampling technique. As far as the data collection is concerned, the primary data were collected from the field using questionnaire, interview, and observation techniques; while the secondary data were collected using documentation technique. Concerning the data analysis, the quantitative data were analyzed by statistical technique, while the qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis technique. The study found out that the use of emerging technologies by Radio Ishingiro improved the disaster management in Gicumbi District, as 25% of the respondents stated that Radio Ishingiro improves its role in disaster management by broadcasting more educational programs on disaster preparedness; 25% of the respondents assert that Radio Ishingiro improves its role in disaster management by feature interviews with local experts and community members; 20% of the respondents stated that Radio Ishingiro improves its role in disaster management by providing clear instructions; while 15% of the respondents argue that Radio Ishingiro improves its role in disaster management by increasing its reach to remote areas. The study concluded that emerging technologies contribute positively in improving disaster management in rural areas of Gicumbi District.
Abstract: This study analyzes the systemic approach to conflict prevention and peacebuilding of UPA’s program in Rwanda with the principle “Whoever Wants Peace Prepares Peace”. The main objective is to evaluate the impact of peace education in 1511 graduated in UPA related program, 35 first graduates in Rwanda and 1476 students and teachers trained in the same perspectives by Association des Jeunes de Saint Charles Lwanga (AJECL) in 45 schools. A sample of 43 respondents was selected using Slovin’s formula. Data collection involved a structured questionnaire, and the results were analyzed using statistical tools to present findings. The study reveals that 95% of respondents are aware of UPA, and 72% have participated in peacebuilding activities. Additionally, 78% believe the program significantly improves conflict resolution skills, while 81% report positive behavioral changes. 76% of teachers and students confirm a reduction of violence in school due to peace education. However, 40% cite resource constraints as a challenge in implementing the program effectively. In conclusion, UPA’s program has had a significant impact on fostering a culture of peace among students and teachers. Strengthening resources and expanding training can further enhance its effectiveness in conflict prevention and peacebuilding in Rwandan schools and beyond.
This paper presents the design and implementation of a smart hiving technology for providing beekeepers with a remote facility to gather information from inside the hive and regulate its environment in real time to enhance honey productivity. The system is based on an Arduino microcontroller, a GSM module, and an LCD. In addition, the paper discusses the advantages, challenges, and recommendations for beekeepers.
Addressing the challenges of traditional beekeeping, this paper proposes an IoT-based Smart Beehive System that enables remote monitoring and control of environmental conditions. The hardware prototype integrates various sensors and energy harvesting models, while a dedicated mobile application facilitates real-time follow-up, thus ensuring enhanced bee colony security and improved honey production.
Focusing on device-to-device (D2D) communication, this paper designs an algorithm to optimize resource use in LTE networks by enabling adjacent and co-channel cells to share frequency resources efficiently. The study demonstrates that the proposed algorithm significantly improves system capacity compared to existing methods.
This research investigates the role of women-led SMEs in Rwanda’s economic development by examining their contribution to employment generation, gender equality, and overall growth. Using both quantitative and qualitative methods, the study concludes with recommendations for government policies to support these enterprises.
Examining the significant role of women in agriculture, this study explores how women’s involvement in cash crop production contributes to gender equality and rural development. Through a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, the research highlights economic empowerment and offers policy recommendations to encourage further participation.