LONG-TERM SAVINGS SCHEME AND WELFARE PROMOTION OF YOUNG PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV IN RWANDA A CASE STUDY OF (EJO HEZA)

Abstract

This study aims to assess the impact of long-term savings schemes on improving the welfare of young people living with HIV in Rwanda, focusing on the Ejo Heza program. It specifically investigates the influence of financial awareness, financial knowledge, attitudes toward saving, and financial behavior on welfare. The research targeted 23,734 individuals from Ejo Heza, utilizing both primary and secondary data. Primary data was collected via structured questionnaires, and the reliability of the instruments was ensured through test-retest methodology and Cronbach's coefficient, with a value of 0.7 confirming their dependability. The study employed descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, with descriptive statistics summarizing data through percentages, frequencies, and counts. Inferential analysis, including multiple regression, was used to explore the relationship between independent and dependent variables. The research employed

concurrent triangulation to enhance validity and conducted detailed interviews to assess non- numerical instruments. The results were presented using tables and figures, offering a

comprehensive understanding of how financial factors influence the welfare of young people living with HIV in Rwanda. The findings indicate that financial behavior has the positive impact on welfare promotion among young people living with HIV, with a high standardized coefficient (Beta = 1.104) and a very strong significance (t = 27.540, p < .001). Financial awareness also positively influences welfare promotion, albeit to a lesser extent (Beta = .085, t = 2.928, p = .004). Conversely, both financial knowledge (Beta = -.085, t = -2.789, p = .006) and attitude towards saving (Beta = -.367, t = -9.502, p < .001) have negative impacts on welfare promotion. The constant term is also significant (B = 1.835, t = 8.677, p < .001), suggesting other underlying factors influencing welfare promotion. The study concludes that financial behavior significantly enhances the welfare of young people living with HIV in Rwanda, while financial awareness also positively contributes to their well-being. In contrast, financial knowledge and attitudes towards saving negatively impact welfare promotion, indicating a need for tailored financial education programs that address these specific challenges. Policymakers and financial educators should prioritize enhancing financial behavior among young people living with HIV by incorporating practical financial management skills and consistent saving practices into their programs. Additionally, targeted interventions should address the negative impacts of financial knowledge and attitudes towards saving by fostering a more positive and informed mindset regarding financial literacy and the benefits of saving.