Assessing the impact of rural-urban linkages on rural economies

Abstract

Issues related to rural inaccessibility, which include low levels of information flow and poor economic performance, constitute some of the current global concerns that have prompted the establishment of international agendas such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Against this background, this study aims to assess the impact of rural-urban linkages on rural economies, specifically road and communication networks and their economic implications on thelivelihoods of Mateanong community. The research is qualitative in nature and has used interviews, open-ended questionnaires and focus group discussion as its main data collection methods. The study unearths that provision of proper rural road and communication networks enhances rural economic activities through increased market access, and also paves way for inclusive development by bridging rural-urban disparities. The findings of this study further show that lack of proper road and communication networks in Mateanong community council perpetuates issues related to poor agricultural productivity, poverty and lack of access to essential services prevailing in the area. This study concludes that rural-urban linkages promote the economic livelihoods of rural residents through enhanced accessibility, mobility and information flow. The study recommends that in order to promote rural livelihoods, the Government should enhance better funding for rural road and communication networks, develop effective project follow-up initiatives, and also prioritize performance-based tendering