Evaluating Graduation: Insights from the Vision 2020 Umurenge Programme in Rwanda

Abstract

This article examines poverty reduction arising from the Vision 2020 Umurenge Programme (VUP) by comparing the status of households receiving benefits for the first time in 2014 against households which received benefits in previous years and against non?beneficiary households. Key findings are that according to the community assessment of poverty (Ubudehe), beneficiaries of both Direct Support and Public Works have improved their situation, including asset holdings, savings, the ability to withstand shocks and perceived food security, and have therefore exited the programme. Other factors affect the progress of a household, including the presence of elderly household members, literacy of household head and access to microfinance from the Financial Services component of VUP. The programme is currently exploring whether it is possible to define a ‘package’ which constitutes a base for sustainable graduation, which, in addition to cash transfer and asset acquisition, should include linkages to skills?building programmes and employment opportunities.