International Journal of Rural and Regional Development
Volume 4, Issue 1 (2026)
Table of contents
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Sustainable Architecture for Rural Communities: The Tanzanian Family House Model
Abstract: Sustainable rural housing in East Africa must respond simultaneously to climatic stress, water scarcity, sanitation challenges, and socio-cultural practices. This article presents the Tanzanian Family House as a climate-responsive and resource-efficient housing model developed specifically for rural Tanzanian communities. The project integrates low embodied energy materials, passive environmental strategies, and decentralized infrastructure systems to create a durable and culturally grounded dwelling that can be constructed using local skills and materials. …
Published in International Journal of Rural and Regional Development · Vol. 4, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 1–12 Read article
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Challenges And Constraints Affecting Female-Owned Rural Farm Businesses in Plateau State, Nigeria
Abstract: This study examined the challenges and constraints affecting female-owned rural farm businesses in Plateau State, Nigeria. No prior study had conducted a comprehensive, quantitative, state-wide investigation covering all 17 local government areas (LGAs) of the state, and this study addressed that gap. The objectives were to identify the challenges faced by female-owned rural farm businesses, assess their relationship with business performance, and determine how strongly these challenges predicted performance outcomes. …
Published in International Journal of Rural and Regional Development · Vol. 4, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 1–13 Read article
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Mapping A Contextualized Southern Africa's Innovation Ecosystem: The Emerging Role of Higher Education in Promoting Inclusive Innovation and Rural Industrialization
Abstract: Higher education institutions (HEIs) are increasingly recognized as strategic actors in shaping innovation ecosystems that can respond to persistent socio-economic inequalities in the Global South. In Southern Africa, where rural underdevelopment, youth unemployment, weak industrial bases, and uneven innovation capacities remain pressing concerns, universities are under growing pressure to move beyond their traditional teaching and research mandates and contribute more directly to inclusive development. This paper examines the emerging role …
Published in International Journal of Rural and Regional Development · Vol. 4, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 14–27 Read article
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An Analytical study of Government Scheme for Farmers in Gujarat: Impact, Implementation Challenges, and Policy Implications
Abstract: Gujarat’s economy is mostly dependent on agriculture, which increases food security, rural employment, and state revenue. Despite the state’s notable progress in irrigation infrastructure and agricultural commercialization, Gujarat farmers continue to face challenges, such as market volatility, water scarcity, unpredictable weather, and rising input costs. The governments of Gujarat and India have implemented several initiatives aimed at addressing these problems, including crop insurance, irrigation expansion, farm mechanization, income support, digital …
Published in International Journal of Rural and Regional Development · Vol. 4, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 38–44 Read article
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Self-Help Group and Rural Women’s Socioeconomic Empowerment in India: An SDG Perspective
Abstract: This research examines the impact of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) on rural women in Khurda District, Odisha, and their contribution to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The central aim of the study is to understand whether participation in SHGs helps women improve their socioeconomic conditions and move closer to global development goals, such as poverty reduction, food security, better health, improved education, and gender equality. To assess this, …
Published in International Journal of Rural and Regional Development · Vol. 4, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 38–48 Read article