Farmers' Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices towards the Payment for the Irrigation Water Fees in Rwanda; Case of Nyirabidibiri Scheme, Rwamagana District

Abstract: This study assesses farmers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding irrigation water fee payments in the Nyirabidibiri Irrigation Scheme, Rwamagana District, Rwanda. Although irrigation is vital for productivity and food security, scheme sustainability is challenged by reluctance to pay fees. Guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior, Diffusion of Innovations Theory, and the Water Governance Model, the study examines farmers’ understanding of the fee system, payment compliance, and the links between knowledge, attitudes, practices, and payment behavior. A descriptive design was applied, targeting Abagendananigihe Water Users Association members and local officials. Using Slovin’s formula, 308 respondents were selected through purposive and simple random sampling. Data were collected via questionnaires and interviews and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlations, and regression in SPSS 27. Results show strong knowledge of fee structures, positive attitudes, and generally responsible payment behavior, though concerns remain about financial transparency and accountability in Water Users Associations. Limited communication and weak farmer involvement in decision-making also affect trust. The study concludes that improving transparency, communication, and community engagement—along with standardizing payment structures—would enhance compliance and support long-term sustainability of the irrigation scheme. Keywords: Farmers ’KAP, Payment, Irrigation Water, Nyirabidibiri Scheme, Rwamagana District. Title: Farmers’ Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices towards the Payment for the Irrigation Water Fees in Rwanda; Case of Nyirabidibiri Scheme, Rwamagana District Author: Mr. Niyonsenga Samuel, Dr. Ndokoye Pancras International Journal of Life Sciences Research ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online) Vol. 13, Issue 4, October 2025 - December 2025 Page No: 44-54 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 12-December-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17910156 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/farmers-knowledge-attitudes-and-practices-towards-the-payment-for-the-irrigation-water-fees-in-rwanda-case-of-nyirabidibiri-scheme-rwamagana-district