Ezechiel Nsabayezu

1. Science education plays a critical role in increasing technological improvement, innovation, and economic development worldwide. Chemistry and physics are fundamental disciplines in the field of...

As global populations confront food insecurity and malnutrition, edible insects have emerged as a sustainable and nutrient-rich alternative. However, consumer acceptance remains a critical barrier to widespread adoption. This study investigates the socio-demographic and cultural factors influencing knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding edible insect-based foods in Nyabihu and Ngororero districts of Rwanda. A cross-sectional study was performed with 397 randomly selected households using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression to identify predictors of KAP levels. Key informant interviews provided qualitative insights into cultural perceptions and consumption trends. Among respondents, 72.5% demonstrated proficient knowledge of edible insects, 70.5% displayed favorable views, and 62.4% had consumed edible insects. Higher education, professional occupations (including civil servants and traders), and the perception of insects as a traditional food source were strongly correlated with enhanced knowledge and positive attitudes (p < 0.05). Conversely, cultural taboos were significant negative predictors, reducing both knowledge and attitudes. Students, traders, and government workers exhibited higher levels of positive behaviors, whereas inhabitants of Ngororero and those citing cultural taboos were less inclined to participate in entomophagy. Despite a promising knowledge and attitudinal baseline, actual consumption remains below optimal levels, constrained by persistent socio-cultural barriers. District leaders and policymakers can utilize these results to implement targeted nutrition campaigns aimed at eliminating cultural taboos and promoting edible insect consumption. Rwandan food technologists, academicians, and entrepreneurs can leverage these findings to develop insect-based food products to combat child malnutrition.

Introduction: malnutrition remains a critical public health challenge in Rwanda, particularly in rural districts like Nyabihu and Ngororero, where children face chronic undernutrition despite ongoing national interventions. This study investigates the underlying causes of malnutrition among children in Nyabihu and Ngororero districts. Methods: using a structured questionnaire, data were gathered from 46 parents to assess household income, nutrition knowledge, dietary practices, sanitation, and access to health services. Independent t-tests, MANOVA, and Chi-square tests were utilized to examine relationships between between variables. Results: most households earn less than 50,000 RWF per month, reflecting widespread poverty. Significant gender-based disparities were observed in engagement with community malnutrition programs, with women (M= 0.96, SD= 0.19) demonstrating significantly higher involvement than males (M= 0.58, SD= 0.42), t (46) = 2.45, p= 0.017. Despite general awareness of principles of balanced diets, this knowledge is not translating into practice. Most households reported poor dietary diversity and inadequate intake of proteins, dairy, fruits, and vegetables, leading to deficiencies in essential nutrients. Alarmingly, a large proportion of children are not benefiting from available nutrition interventions. Perceptions of malnutrition varied significantly by gender (p= 0.013) and occupation (p= 0.036), though not by age (p= 0.119). Conclusion: the study highlights the urgent need for targeted, multisectoral strategies that address both knowledge-practice gaps and systemic barriers. In addition to improving food availability, integrated interventions focusing on maternal education, dietary diversity, hygiene, and equitable access to healthcare services are crucial for achieving sustainable improvements in child nutrition.