THE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS AND DIPLOMATIC ENGAGEMENTS IN ENHANCING NGO PROGRAMS FOR POVERTY REDUCTION IN RWANDA: A CASE OF CARITAS RWANDA

Abstract: This study examined the role of international partnerships and diplomatic engagements in enhancing NGO programs for poverty reduction in Rwanda, focusing on Caritas Rwanda. The study adopted a mixed-method design integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Primary and secondary data were used to assess how collaborations with international partners, donor agencies, and diplomatic missions influence the efficiency, sustainability, and scalability of poverty reduction initiatives implemented by Caritas. A sample of 100 respondents, including Caritas staff, local beneficiaries, and partner representatives, was selected using purposive and random sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS (version 26). Findings revealed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.812**) between international partnerships and the effectiveness of poverty reduction programs. Qualitative analysis further indicated that diplomatic engagements facilitate knowledge transfer, capacity building, and advocacy for policy reforms supportive of NGO operations. The study concluded that international collaborations significantly enhance NGO program sustainability and recommended that Caritas strengthen partnership management, improve donor communication strategies, and align its initiatives with Rwanda’s Vision 2050 development framework. Keywords: International partnerships, Diplomatic engagement, Poverty reduction, NGO programs, Caritas Rwanda, Development cooperation. Title: THE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS AND DIPLOMATIC ENGAGEMENTS IN ENHANCING NGO PROGRAMS FOR POVERTY REDUCTION IN RWANDA: A CASE OF CARITAS RWANDA Author: Francois Xavier MUTUYIMANA, Dr. Francis Maina MARARO International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online) Vol. 13, Issue 4, October 2025 - December 2025 Page No: 138-145 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 17-October-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17377123 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/the-role-of-international-partnerships-and-diplomatic-engagements-in-enhancing-ngo-programs-for-poverty-reduction-in-rwanda-a-case-of-caritas-rwanda