In pursuing the overall and specific objectives of this assessment, the researcher adopted a mixed research methods anchored on triangulation of data and data analysis. As a result, this report provides both quantitative and qualitative data. The quantitative part involved using the questionnaire as a data collection tool and analysis of quantitative data from 238 sampled respondents in 3 districts where MCBO operates and these are Nyabihu, Musanze and Burera Districts. As for the qualitative one, data was collected from 78 key informants using interview guide and through Focus Group Discussions, Key Informant Interviews as well as desk review. For both quantitative and qualitative methods, primary and secondary data was analyzed thematically. This involved categorizing, comparing, synthesizing, and interpreting themes that emerged from primary data.
Based on the views collected from the respondents, the researcher found that Tubategamatwi performed different interventions which distinguished it with other existing forums in place. That distinction was highlighted by the respondents as following:
· It was demonstrated that 88% of respondents across the three districts where MCBO operates are familiar with the Tubategamatwi program/approach.
· In its advocacy efforts, Tubategamatwi reaches out to citizens in areas they would otherwise be unable to access due to fear, lack of time, or limited capacity to visit those offices
· Tubategamatwi brought citizens into direct contact with authorities they would not usually have the opportunity to meet and sit down with for discussions.
This program has effectively engaged local authorities in addressing citizens' issues. A leader tasked with a problem would not want a citizen to raise the same issue repeatedly before multiple authorities gathered at Tubategamatwi. If a problem is submitted to a particular authority and it is not addressed, and if the leader perceives no obstacles to resolving it particularly if it falls under their responsibility they should take necessary actions to resolve it promptly before it escalates to a public forum.
In this assessment, no respondent indicated that the program is ineffective or unnecessary. Despite the program’s long-standing presence in Nyabihu, some sectors, such as Rugera and Jomba, reported limited visibility of the program. Consequently, they have requested closer engagement from MCBO, as they currently perceive no significant changes. Understanding citizens‟ rights and responsibilities, as well as the services they are entitled to, has contributed to a reduction in corruption related to service delivery. Improved awareness of government programs and active participation in these programs will undoubtedly foster overall development.
In all districts where MCBO operates, the Tubategamatwi model is often confused with citizens' assemblies due to its alignment with or connection to these assemblies. Consequently, respondents noted that citizens' assemblies are highly attended. However, many did not specifically highlight "Tubategamatwi" as a widely attended model, although they acknowledged the different solutions and changes it has introduced to these districts.
Community outreach should be institutionalized across all levels of government, establishing a continuous and systematic approach. Higher authorities should recognize that citizen engagement is not limited to local leaders such as the Mutwarasibo, Umudugudu, or sector heads, but that citizens should also experience a broader, more effective engagement process that transcends mere paper communication, enhancing their understanding and interaction with both officials and fellow citizens. MCBO should work to boost citizens‟ self-confidence and active participation in community meetings by encouraging those who are less active to express their views and concerns during citizens' assemblies and other gatherings.
The assessment of “Tubategamatwi program” implemented by MCBO reveals significant advancements in citizen participation and community engagement across Nyabihu, Musanze, and Burera Districts. The program has effectively fostered connections between citizens and local authorities, empowering individuals to advocate for their rights while enhancing their understanding of government initiatives. Despite its successes, challenges remain in reaching all community members and ensuring sustained engagement in the program, particularly in Musanze and Burera, where awareness and participation levels are still developing. Recommendations for improvement, such as increasing visibility, implementing educational outreach, and leveraging technology, present viable pathways towards strengthening the framework of participatory governance. Overall, the positive feedback received underscores the program's vital role in promoting accountability, reducing conflict, and instilling confidence among citizens, ultimately contributing to a more robust democratic governance landscape in the region.
MCBO Executive Director Explaining the reason for assessment on TUBATEGAMATWI Program and why it was conducted