Journal of Rural and Community Development / Revue du développement rural et communautaire
type: channel
description: The Journal of Rural and Community Development is pleased to publish Volume 21, Issue 2. The JRCD is an open access, peer-reviewed journal that publishes development research on and in rural and small town areas around the world. We do not charge authors for publication in the JRCD. The JRCD gratefully acknowledges funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) through their 'Aid to Scholarly Publications' programme. We secured renewed SSHRC funding for 2026-2029. We respect the treaties that were made on these lands and acknowledge that Brandon University is located on Treaty 2 Lands. On behalf of Brandon University, I welcome you to the traditional homelands of the Dakota, Anishanabek, Oji-Cree, Cree, Dene and Metis peoples. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ La Revue de développement rural et communautaire est heureuse de publier le volume 21, numéro 2. Le journal JRCD est un journal en libre accès, revu par des comités de lecture et qui publie la recherche de développement sur et des zones rurales ainsi que des petites villes partout dans le monde. Le JRCD tient à remercier le Conseil de Recherches en Sciences Humaines (CRSH) du Canada grâce à leur programme d''Aide aux Revues Savantes'. Nous avons garanti le renouvellement des fonds du CRSH pour 2026-2029. Nous respectons les traités qui ont été conclus sur ces terres et reconnaissons que l'Université de Brandon est située sur les terres du Traité n° 2. Au nom de l'Université de Brandon, je vous souhaite la bienvenue sur les terres traditionnelles des peuples Dakota, Anishanabek, Oji-Cree, Cree, Dene et Metis.
publisher: Rural Development Institute
language: en
publication name: Journal of Rural and Community Development / Revue du développement rural et communautaire
issn: 1712-8277
copyright: Copyright for articles published in this journal is retained by the authors, with first publication rights granted to the journal. By virtue of their appearance in this open access journal, articles are free to use, with proper attribution, in educational and other non-commercial settings.
items: Common Lands, Communities and Governance in Italian Rural Commons: Comparing Collective Domains and ReCommoning Experiences
items: Beyond the Narrative: Participatory Storytelling as a Tool for Sustainable Rural Tourism Governance in East Kalimantan, Indonesia
items: Household Food Insecurity and Its Determinants In Rural Communities of Ogun State, Nigeria
items: Understanding Smallholders’ Credit Behaviour: A Panacea for Poor Agricultural Production In Ogun State, Nigeria
items: How to Best Implement Shared Benefits From Human Genetic Research: Harnessing and Applying Lessons from Canada’s Mining Sector and Resource Regions
items: Application of the Rural Web Framework Within the Context of China’s Rural Revitalization Strategy: A Case Study of Zhangshui Town
items: The Peaks and Valleys of Connection: Lessons from the Scottish Highlands and Islands
items: A Rapid Evidence Synthesis of Policy Mechanisms To Reduce Greenhouse Gases from Transport In Rural Areas
items: Outdoor Recreation as a Community Development Strategy in Rural British Columbia: Bridges and Barriers to Success
items: A Call for Action: Ensuring Equal Healthcare Access in Rural Canada
items: The Impact of CPR Training Workshops on Knowledge, Confidence, and Healthcare Career Interest in Rural British Columbia Youth
items: Context Matters: How History, Relationships, and Resourcefulness Shape Rural Physical Activity Systems
items: Selected Conditioning of Knowledge Transfer in Rural Areas Between “Newcomers” and “Oldtimers” – Results of Empirical Research in Poland’s Countryside
items: Members’ Commitment To Agricultural Cooperatives and Its Determinants in the Gamo Zone, South Ethiopia Region
items: Climate Change Impacts on Agricultural Development in Bamyan Province, Afghanistan
items: Planning Adaptation To Climate Change: Practices And Perspectives Of Farmers In Select North Central Nigeria States
items: Rural Youth and Cacao Farming in the Brazilian Amazon: Interpretations of Their Roles And Challenges
items: Drinking Water Supply Challenges and Life Straw Use in Rural Zimbabwe
items: Rural Precarity Amidst Changing Policy: Childcare in Rural British Columbia
items: Co-concevoir des espaces publics inclusifs en contexte rural et périurbain : Un levier pour la cohésion sociale et le développement de ces territoires ?
items: Exploring Mental Health Issues Among Rice Farmers in the Philippines In Relation to Climate Change Impacts
items: From Science to the Table: Patagonian Mycoculture Capacity Building Through Community-Based Educational Workshops
items: Designing and Implementing An Intervention Rooted in Cultural Knowledge to Reduce HIV-Related Stigma in Ugandan Schoolchildren
items: Qualitative Community Needs Assessment for a Rural Town in Montana, USA: Documenting an Emerging Identity of a Community Undergoing Unprecedented Growth
items: Artificial Intelligence and Rural Health Equity: Perspectives from Northern Ontario
items: Perceptual Analysis of Mountain Zone Governance: Case of the Tichoukt Massif–Middle Atlas, Morocco
items: Institutional Resilience And Sustainable Livelihoods in Rural South Africa’s Alfred Nzo District Municipality
items: Disaster Preparedness and Responsibility Perception In Disaster Situations in Rural Madagascar
items: Exploring the Crisis: Factors Affecting Large Animal Veterinary Services in Northern Ontario's Rural Regions
items: At the Crossroads: Examining the Role of Place and Gender As Predictors of Cannabis Use-Related Driving Behaviour

Common Lands, Communities and Governance in Italian Rural Commons: Comparing Collective Domains and ReCommoning Experiences
type: item
description: This article offers an exploratory comparative analysis of rural commons in Italy by examining seven cases through three analytical dimensions: material, human, and regulatory. Rather than treating collective domains and ReCommoning experiences as either identical realities or fully opposed models, the study approaches them as distinct but partially comparable configurations of rural commons. The empirical material consists of ten semi-structured interviews conducted in three Italian territorial areas, Northeast, Center, and South, and analyzed through a qualitative-interpretative approach. The comparison shows clear differences in historical trajectory, social composition, and governance arrangements. Collective Domains are more often embedded in long-term institutional continuity and formalized criteria of access, whereas ReCommoning experiences emerge more explicitly through collective activation, public land recovery, and assembly-based forms of self-governance. At the same time, the cases also reveal partial convergences: in both configurations, land is treated as more than a tradable asset, responsibility toward shared resources and future generations recurs as a central value, and access is mediated through rules and collective arrangements rather than left to individual appropriation alone. The article argues that the main contribution of the study lies less in proposing a unified theory of rural commons than in showing the analytical usefulness of comparing different commons configurations through the material, human, and regulatory dimensions. The findings suggest that, under certain conditions, non-market and collectively governed arrangements may sustain meaningful forms of access, care, and socio-ecological reproduction. Keywords: rural commons, collective domains, public lands, community, regulation ______________________________________________ Terres communes, communautés et gouvernance des biens communs ruraux italiens : Comparaison de domaines coll…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Francesco Saverio Oliverio
creator: Stefano Oricchio
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Francesco Saverio Oliverio
date: 2026-05-25
publication date: 2026-05-25
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i2.2825

Beyond the Narrative: Participatory Storytelling as a Tool for Sustainable Rural Tourism Governance in East Kalimantan, Indonesia
type: item
description: Rural tourism is considered an instrument of sustainable rural development. However, the balance of power in the production of the discourse on rural development is not equal, often resulting in the marginalization of the voices of the people. In the existing literature, the role of tourism storytelling is mostly considered an instrument of branding, participation, or legitimacy discourses. Moreover, the connection between narrative practices and the outcomes of rural tourism governance is not typically considered. This study aims to examine the role of participatory storytelling in rural tourism governance in East Kalimantan, Indonesia. By using the constructivist embedded multiple case design in eight tourism villages, the study explores the connection between narrative genres and participatory governance indicators. The findings of the study reveal that narrative practices play an essential role in the production of the infrastructure of rural tourism governance. In this sense, the role of narrative agency can be considered an instrument of participatory legitimacy. A new framework of participatory storytelling was then developed. Keywords: participatory storytelling, rural tourism, participatory communication, rural development, community-based tourism _______________________________________________________________ Au-delà du récit : la narration participative comme outil de gouvernance du tourisme rural durable au Kalimantan oriental, Indonésie Résumé Le tourisme rural est considéré comme un instrument de développement rural durable. Cependant, le rapport de force dans la production du discours sur le développement rural est inégal, ce qui conduit souvent à la marginalisation des voix des populations locales. Dans la littérature existante, le rôle de la narration touristique est principalement envisagé comme un outil au service des discours sur l'image de marque, la participation ou la légitimité. De plus, le lien entre les pratiques narratives et les résultats…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Rina Juwita
creator: Rahmawati Rahmawati
creator: Yana Ulfah
creator: Zainal Arifin
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Rina Juwita, Rahmawati Rahmawati, Yana Ulfah, Zainal Arifin
date: 2026-05-25
publication date: 2026-05-25
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i2.2952

Household Food Insecurity and Its Determinants In Rural Communities of Ogun State, Nigeria
type: item
description: Food insecurity is one of the most pressing development issues confronting the world, particularly in developing countries such as Nigeria. This study investigated household food insecurity and its determinants in rural communities of Ogun State, Nigeria, using primary data that were obtained from 285 respondents across the study area. The data obtained were analyzed using the food insecurity index and a binary logistic regression model. The headcount food insecurity index estimation showed that less than half (40.5%) of the rural households were food insecure, while the remaining 59.5% were food secure. The result of the binary logistic regression model revealed that the household income (p<0.05), farm size (p<0.10), level of education (p<0.10) gender of the household head (p<0.05), and household size (p<0.01) had a significant effect on household food insecurity status in the study area. The study concluded that there were more food-secure households than food-insecure households in the study area and recommended implementing policies to enhance income generation, expand access to farmland, promote family planning, and prioritize education for rural household heads to improve food security in the study area. Keywords: Rural household, hunger, food insecurity, food accessibility, food expenditure, SDG indicator 2.1.1 ______________________________________________________ Insécurité alimentaire des ménages et ses déterminants dans les communautés rurales de l'État d'Ogun, au Nigéria Résumé L'insécurité alimentaire est l'un des problèmes de développement les plus urgents auxquels le monde est confronté, en particulier dans les pays en développement comme le Nigéria. Cette étude a examiné l'insécurité alimentaire des ménages et ses déterminants dans les communautés rurales de l'État d'Ogun, au Nigéria, à partir de données primaires recueillies auprès de 285 répondants dans la zone d'étude. Les données obtenues ont été analysées à l'aide de l'indice d'insécurité alimen…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Olatokunbo Osinowo
creator: Kassim Adekunle AKANNI
creator: Esther Toluwatope Tolorunju
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Olatokunbo Osinowo, Professor Akanni, Esther Toluwatope Tolorunju
date: 2026-05-25
publication date: 2026-05-25
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i2.2808

Understanding Smallholders’ Credit Behaviour: A Panacea for Poor Agricultural Production In Ogun State, Nigeria
type: item
description: Agricultural credit is vital for smallholder farmers' access to basic inputs that enhance agricultural production; however, there is a paucity of information on smallholder farmers' behaviour in obtaining agricultural credit. This study assessed the credit behaviour of smallholder farmers in the Ijebu-Ode agricultural zone, Ogun State, Nigeria. The respondents (n = 124) were selected using multistage sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. We found that more than half of the farmers (58.9%) had bank accounts. Most respondents (67.7%) had never obtained formal credits, while 55.6% obtains informal credit annually. Most (77.4%) smallholders repay their loans on time, and 61.3% demonstrate favourable credit behaviour. The age (-0.054, p < 0.10) and educational level (1.047, p < 0.10) of farmers significantly influenced their credit behaviour. The choice (-0.058, p<0.10) and sources of agricultural credit (-0.406, p<0.01) were drivers of farmers’ credit behaviour. The conclusion of this study is two-fold. Smallholder farmers are not favourably disposed toward formal credit, and their perceptions of agricultural credit sources significantly influence their credit behaviour. Similarly, farmers prefer informal sources of credit for their flexibility, trust, and accessibility. We recommend that innovative approaches to strengthening and consolidating the informal credit system among smallholder farmers receive high priority, and that formal lending institutions be restructured to be more farmer-centred to improve access to credit, as this is vital for enhancing agricultural production and food security in Nigeria. Keywords: agricultural credit, credit behaviour, smallholder farmers, Nigeria __________________________________________________________ Comprendre le comportement des petits exploitants agricoles en matière de crédit : une panacée pour une production agricole insuffisante dans l’état…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Adegbenga Adekoya
creator: Blessing Adebanjo
creator: Benjamin Oyelami
creator: Iredele Ogunbayo
creator: Mercy Adediran
creator: Monday Shaibu
creator: Oyewale Oyegoke
creator: Oreoluwa Akano
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Adegbenga Adekoya, Blessing Adebanjo, Benjamin Oyelami, Iredele Ogunbayo, Mercy Adediran, Monday Shaibu, Oyewale Oyegoke, Oreoluwa Akano
date: 2026-05-25
publication date: 2026-05-25
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i2.2587

How to Best Implement Shared Benefits From Human Genetic Research: Harnessing and Applying Lessons from Canada’s Mining Sector and Resource Regions
type: item
description: QQuestions of benefit-sharing have long been asked in relation to natural resources. Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), with its rich history of resource development in sectors like mining and offshore oil and gas, provides a unique opportunity to learn from and apply valuable lessons from these industries to maximize the shared benefits of human genetic research (HGR) within the province and ultimately elsewhere. As the field of human genetics rapidly advances, offering insights into health and disease and creating new related industries and development strategies that view genetic material as a “resource”, it becomes essential to consider how such knowledge can be harnessed for the betterment of the local population. Drawing parallels from successful models in other sectors, particularly mining, this manuscript explores innovative approaches to best ensure shared benefits from HGR in NL. By examining the strategies and mechanisms that have led to successful resource development and more equitable distribution of benefits in the mining sector, I investigate how to apply these strategies in HGR, ultimately enhancing healthcare outcomes for the people of NL, particularly in rural regions which have historically been more affected by genetic conditions. This manuscript utilizes insights gained from key informant interviews and focus groups with citizens to analyze the possible applications from the mining sector for developing genetic resources. Finally, it provides recommendations for an appropriate benefit-sharing mechanism drawing from the core concepts of governance and distributive justice. Keywords: Benefit-sharing; resource development; genetic research; founder populations; core-periphery dynamics __________________________________________________ Comment maximiser le partage des retombées de la recherche en génétique humaine: tirer parti et appliquer les leçons du secteur minier et des régions riches en ressources naturelles du Canada Résumé La question du parta…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Janelle Skeard
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Janelle Skeard
date: 2026-03-16
publication date: 2026-03-16
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i1.2589

Application of the Rural Web Framework Within the Context of China’s Rural Revitalization Strategy: A Case Study of Zhangshui Town
type: item
description: This paper uses the Rural Web Framework (RWF) to examine Zhangshui’s development initiatives within the scope of China’s Rural Revitalization Strategy. By applying the RWF’s six dimensions—endogeneity, novelty production, sustainability, social capital, institutional arrangements, and market governance—this study provides insights into Zhangshui’s unique blend of agricultural innovation, industrial growth, cultural preservation, sustainable practices, and community engagement. Findings demonstrate the alignment between Zhangshui’s initiatives and national rural revitalization goals, suggesting Zhangshui’s integrated approach to development can serve as a model for sustainable rural revitalization in China. Keywords: Rural Web Framework, rural development, rural revitalization, sustainable development, China ________________________________________________________________________________ Application du cadre d’analyse du réseau rural dans le contexte de la stratégie chinoise de revitalisation rurale : étude de cas de la ville de Zhangshui Résumé Cet article utilise le cadre d’analyse du réseau rural (CWR) pour examiner les initiatives de développement de Zhangshui dans le cadre de la stratégie chinoise de revitalisation rurale. En appliquant les six dimensions du CWR – endogénéité, production de nouveautés, durabilité, capital social, dispositifs institutionnels et gouvernance du marché – cette étude met en lumière la combinaison unique d’innovation agricole, de croissance industrielle, de préservation culturelle, de pratiques durables et d’engagement communautaire qui caractérise Zhangshui. Les résultats démontrent la cohérence entre les initiatives de Zhangshui et les objectifs nationaux de revitalisation rurale, suggérant que l’approche intégrée du développement de Zhangshui peut servir de modèle pour une revitalisation rurale durable en Chine. Mots clés: cadre web rural, développement rural, revitalisation rurale, développement durable, Chine ____________________…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Yue Guo
creator: Nancy X. Liu
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Yue Guo, Nancy X. Liu
date: 2026-05-25
publication date: 2026-05-25
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i2.2701

The Peaks and Valleys of Connection: Lessons from the Scottish Highlands and Islands
type: item
description: Limited by incoherent government policies towards rural connectivity and development, rural communities across Canada, especially in mountainous regions, struggle to access and implement innovative technologies and strategies to address local development needs. Meanwhile, the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK) are experimenting with policies and pilot projects implementing the Smart Village approach to address rural connectivity. This research investigates how the Smart Village approach has been deployed in the EU and UK to support rural development in mountainous regions. Through an analysis of EU and UK policy documents tied to the creation of the Smart Village concept, the Highlands and Uplands region of Scotland was identified as the case for this research. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with local leaders and organizations to examine the research question. The research demonstrates the intersection of geography, technology, and policy in rural development, providing several transferable lessons for Canadian policy makers and mountainous communities seeking enhanced development outcomes through place- and participatory-based strategies. Keywords: Smart Villages, broadband, connectivity, rural development, Scotland _____________________________________________________________ Les hauts et les bas de la connectivité : leçons tirées des Highlands et des îles écossaises Résumé Face à des politiques gouvernementales incohérentes en matière de connectivité et de développement rural, les communautés rurales du Canada, particulièrement en régions montagneuses, peinent à accéder aux technologies et stratégies innovantes et à les mettre en oeuvre pour répondre à leurs besoins de développement locaux. Parallèlement, l’Union européenne (UE) et le Royaume-Uni expérimentent des politiques et des projets pilotes appliquant le concept de « village intelligent » pour remédier au problème de connectivité rurale. Cette recherche examine comment ce concept d…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Blake Glassford
creator: Ryan Gibson
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Blake Glassford, Ryan Gibson
date: 2026-05-25
publication date: 2026-05-25
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i2.2938

A Rapid Evidence Synthesis of Policy Mechanisms To Reduce Greenhouse Gases from Transport In Rural Areas
type: item
description: The transport sector in the United Kingdom represents a significant contributor to national greenhouse gas emissions, necessitating focused climate change mitigation strategies. While urban areas have seen the successful implementation of policies targeting vehicle emissions over the last two decades, such as Ultra Low Emission Zones and Clean Air Zones in cities, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from rural transport has received comparatively less scholarly attention. To address this disparity, a rapid review was conducted following the PRISMA protocol to evaluate the current state of research. The screening process of 565 potentially relevant publications yielded only 11 eligible studies for inclusion in the review. The limited volume of existing articles containing primary data suggests that further empirical research is needed to assess effective policy interventions for rural transport emission mitigation. Nevertheless, preliminary syntheses from this review suggest that enhancements in public transport provision, including responsive transport services, alongside the promotion of active travel and shared transport initiatives, offer potential avenues for greenhouse gas emission reduction in rural areas. Keywords: Greenhouse gas emissions, rural transport, transport policies, PRISMA rapid review, evidence synthesis _______________________________________________________________ Synthèse rapide des données probantes sur les mécanismes politiques visant à réduire les gaz à effet de serre liés aux transports en milieu rural Résumé Au Royaume-Uni, le secteur des transports est l'un des principaux responsables des émissions nationales de gaz à effet de serre, ce qui rend indispensables des stratégies ciblées d'atténuation du changement climatique. Si les zones urbaines ont bénéficié, au cours des deux dernières décennies, de la mise en oeuvre réussie de politiques visant à réduire les émissions des véhicules, telles que les zones à très faibles émissions et…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Ellie Nelson
creator: Jiaxin Liu
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Ellie Nelson, Jiaxin Liu
date: 2026-05-25
publication date: 2026-05-25
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i2.2957

Outdoor Recreation as a Community Development Strategy in Rural British Columbia: Bridges and Barriers to Success
type: item
description: Within a fast-changing global landscape, rural places are seeking sustainable pathways to community development. Intentional growth of the outdoor recreation sector offers a host of potential benefits, including economic diversification, resident retention and attraction, and improvements to public health. To fully realize these benefits, however, communities need to be intentional in their development approach and manage common challenges and barriers to success like conflict, team burnout, environmental degradation, and a failure to capture visitor spending. The Outdoor Recreation Council of British Columbia commissioned an evidence-based guidebook to help rural communities develop sustainable outdoor recreation economies. This article summarizes lessons learned through the research that informed the guidebook and suggests strategies to capitalize on the community development opportunities presented by outdoor recreation. In addition to relevance outside the case-study province of British Columbia, findings have crossover relevance to other topics in rural and community development. Keywords: rural, community development, economic development, outdoor recreation, tourism, sustainability _______________________________________________________ Les loisirs de plein air comme stratégie de développement communautaire en Colombie-Britannique rurale : leviers et obstacles à la réussite Résumé Dans un contexte mondial en constante évolution, les régions rurales recherchent des voies durables de développement communautaire. Le développement ciblé du secteur des loisirs de plein air offre de nombreux avantages potentiels, notamment la diversification économique, la fidélisation et l’attraction de résidents, ainsi que l’amélioration de la santé publique. Toutefois, pour tirer pleinement parti de ces avantages, les collectivités doivent adopter une approche de développement ciblée et surmonter les défis et obstacles courants entravant la réussite, tels que les conflits, l’épu…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Lauren Rethoret
creator: Sarah-Patricia Breen
creator: Jessica Froese
creator: Louise Pedersen
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Lauren Rethoret, Sarah-Patricia Breen, Jessica Froese, Louise Pedersen
date: 2026-05-25
publication date: 2026-05-25
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i2.3067

A Call for Action: Ensuring Equal Healthcare Access in Rural Canada
type: item
description: People living in rural Canada often experience inequitable access to comprehensive healthcare services. Despite health policy efforts to improve access in rural communities, residents frequently report challenges obtaining reliable primary care, emergency services, maternity and seniors’ care, mental health and substance use supports, specialist services, and chronic disease management. Understanding the social determinants of health specific to rural contexts is a critical foundation for addressing rural health disparities and informing effective policy development. Nurse practitioners (NPs) are well positioned to contribute to rural healthcare delivery through their ability to practice autonomously and provide comprehensive, person-centred care. NP practice includes holistic health assessment that incorporates psychosocial, cultural, spiritual, behavioural, developmental, and social determinants of health alongside clinical evaluation. In addition to direct care, NPs contribute to service improvement, care coordination, patient advocacy, and health education that is responsive to available community resources. Policy efforts that strengthen NP role integration, continuity of care, and alignment of scope of practice with community health needs may enhance access to comprehensive services in rural settings. Supporting such approaches has the potential to advance health equity, improve health outcomes, and contribute to more sustainable rural healthcare systems. Keywords: rural health, nurse practitioner, social determinants of health, health policy __________________________________________________ Appel à l’action : garantir l’égalité d’accès aux soins de santé en milieu rural au Canada Résumé Les personnes vivant en milieu rural au Canada souffrent souvent d’un accès inégal aux services de santé complets. Malgré les efforts déployés par les politiques de santé pour améliorer l’accès aux soins dans les communautés rurales, les résidents signalent fréquemment des di…
subject: Policy Evaluation and Review
  topic: section
creator: Kathleen Bykowski
creator: Donna Wilson
creator: Farrah Glanfield
creator: Carmel Montgomery
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Kathleen Bykowski, Donna Wilson, Farrah Glanfield, Carmel Montgomery
date: 2026-03-16
publication date: 2026-03-16
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i1.2544

The Impact of CPR Training Workshops on Knowledge, Confidence, and Healthcare Career Interest in Rural British Columbia Youth
type: item
description: Abstract Rural British Columbia (BC) communities have limited access to life-saving emergency care during out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, resulting in lower survival rates than urban areas. The Rural CPR Outreach Programme (RCOP) aims to address these disparities by improving bystander CPR literacy among high school students in rural BC. Free one-hour CPR workshops were conducted in three rural communities in the BC Interior. Pre- and post-workshop surveys captured changes in participants’ CPR knowledge, confidence, perceived importance, and interest in healthcare careers. Across eight workshops, a total of 168 surveys were collected. Students recognized the importance of CPR despite low rates of previous CPR training and awareness of local training. The RCOP workshops increased students’ knowledge and confidence in performing CPR. No change in career interest was reported. The RCOP highlights the necessity, effectiveness and potential benefits of low-barrier CPR training initiatives in rural BC high schools and their communities. Keywords: CPR training, AED training, rural, education, outreach ________________________________________________________________ Impact des ateliers de formation en RCR sur les connaissances, la confiance et l’intérêt pour les carrières en santé chez les jeunes des régions rurales de la Colombie-Britannique Résumé Les communautés rurales de la Colombie-Britannique (C.-B.) ont un accès limité aux soins d’urgence vitaux en cas d’arrêt cardiaque extrahospitalier, ce qui se traduit par des taux de survie inférieurs à ceux des milieux urbains. Le programme de sensibilisation à la RCR en milieu rural (PSRR) vise à réduire ces inégalités en améliorant les connaissances des élèves du secondaire en matière de RCR. Des ateliers gratuits d’une heure sur la RCR ont été organisés dans trois communautés rurales de l’intérieur de la Colombie-Britannique. Des sondages menés avant et après les ateliers ont permis de mesurer l’évolution des connaissances d…
subject: Policy Evaluation and Review
  topic: section
creator: Daniel Hilbers Hilbers
creator: Agata Koczij
creator: Navid Nekain
creator: Lauren Okano
creator: Matthew David Lavery
creator: Azim Ahmed
creator: Arshbir Aulakh
creator: Simona Bene Watts
creator: Jared Baylis
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Daniel Hilbers Hilbers, Agata Koczij , Navid Nekain , Lauren Okano , Matthew David Lavery, Azim Ahmed , Arshbir Aulakh, Simona Bene Watts , Jared Baylis
date: 2026-05-25
publication date: 2026-05-25
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i2.2908

Context Matters: How History, Relationships, and Resourcefulness Shape Rural Physical Activity Systems
type: item
description: Rural communities experience disproportionately high rates of chronic disease, a disparity influenced by lower levels of physical activity (PA) and persistent systemic and structural barriers. Using a constructivist grounded theory approach, we conducted 25 semi-structured key informant (KI) interviews to explore how county–municipal planners and parks and recreation professionals in 10 rural North Carolina counties navigate barriers (e.g., disinvestment, vulnerability to natural disasters, limited administrative capacity) and leverage facilitators (e.g., partnerships, shared infrastructure) to promote PA in their county. Findings revealed two structuring realities: Acknowledging Historical Challenges and Seeking Community Engagement, which consistently shaped stakeholders’ approaches. KIs described the long-term impacts of industry loss, disinvestment, and natural disasters as defining features of their community landscape, highlighting how local trust, informal networks, and community voice are essential to every stage of their work. These orientations informed three interrelated processes: Managing Financial and Organizational Resources, Maintaining Community Infrastructure, and Exploring Opportunities for Community Development and Collaboration. KIs emphasized the importance of relying on partnerships, relational networks, and adaptive strategies to sustain PA opportunities despite resource constraints. Our findings underscore the need for long-term and context-specific investment in relational and organizational capacity that aligns with communities’ historical and structuring realities to improve rural PA opportunities. Keywords: Rural, physical activity, community engagement, partnerships, constructivist grounded theory, parks and recreation __________________________________________________________________ L'importance du contexte : comment l'histoire, les relations et l'ingéniosité façonnent les systèmes d'activité physique en milieu rural Résumé Les commun…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Pauline Grist
creator: Annie Hardison-Moody
creator: Jason Bocarro
creator: Michael Edwards
creator: Brenna Kirk
creator: Nicole Odell
creator: Maeghan Luttrell
creator: Lauren Morris
creator: Virginia Stage
creator: Basheerah Enahora
creator: Aaron Hipp
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Aaron Hipp, Pauline Grist, Annie Hardison-Moody, Jason Bocarro, Michael Edwards, Brenna Kirk, Nicole Odell, Maeghan Luttrell, Lauren Morris, Virginia Stage, Basheerah Enahora
date: 2026-05-25
publication date: 2026-05-25
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i2.3035

Selected Conditioning of Knowledge Transfer in Rural Areas Between “Newcomers” and “Oldtimers” – Results of Empirical Research in Poland’s Countryside
type: item
description: The core aim of the work presented here is to diagnose and assess the transfer of knowledge and information in rural areas between urban and rural inhabitants. This process, as exemplified across different regions of Poland, was carried out through survey research and complementary in-depth interviewing. Specifically, the work considered both newcomers from cities and long-term inhabitants residing more or less side by side in 18 villages across the country. Answers were being sought for three research questions: (1) What types of knowledge and information are being transferred in villages between urban and rural inhabitants? (2) What are the main directions of the transfer of knowledge/information, and at what intensity? and (3) what consequences does this knowledge transfer have for rural-dwellers and the development of rural areas? It emerges that these flows between the two groups studied are of an extremely informational nature, serving to meet the daily needs of both old and new inhabitants. Where there were cases of more profound knowledge or information of a more specialist nature, this mainly related to construction, food production and crop or plant cultivation. Knowledge transfer is seen to be of rather limited intensity, proceeding through sporadic meetings that mainly take place in public places, such as streets, central areas, or shops. The flow is nonetheless of a two-way nature, with interviewing making it clear that oldtimers are first and foremost sources of up-to-date, practical information, even as newcomers supply advice and non-material knowledge alongside information. Keywords: Knowledge transfer, rural-urban relations, countryside, newcomers, Poland ____________________________________________________________ Conditionnement sélectif du transfert de connaissances en milieu rural : entre nouveaux arrivants et habitants de longue date – résultats d’une étude empirique en Pologne rurale Résumé L'objectif principal de cette étude est d'analyser e…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Jerzy Banski
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Jerzy Banski
date: 2026-03-16
publication date: 2026-03-16
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i1.2802

Members’ Commitment To Agricultural Cooperatives and Its Determinants in the Gamo Zone, South Ethiopia Region
type: item
description: Collective actions like agricultural cooperatives are among the institutional arrangements to address market failures and related consequences in the agricultural and rural development domain. Recent works focus on considering dimensions of cooperatives beyond organizing collective groups to benefit smallholder farmers. Commitment of members to their cooperatives has received recent attention due to its paramount importance for the sustainability of cooperative organizations. This study investigated the level of member commitment and its associated determinants to highlight areas for future interventions by cooperative management, rural development policymakers and other development organizations. The study was based on quantitative data collected from cooperative members in the Gamo Zone, South Ethiopia, through household survey interviews. Descriptive statistics, factor analysis and ordered logit models were used to analyze collected data. The majority of respondents reported a low to moderate level of commitment. The econometric model result shows that distance to the cooperative office, contact with cooperative agents, dividend distribution, perception of the influence of other members’ decisions, co-operative leadership experience, and perceived trust in their leaders significantly affect members’ level of commitment to their co-operative. Recruiting cooperative extension workers, audit experts, and supervisors are important areas that government offices can address to make cooperatives more viable for their members. Cooperative organizations should also work for regular auditing followed by dividend distribution to help their members stay engaged with their organizations. To create greater trust, the paper argues that cooperative leaders should strengthen member participation in decision making, including holding regular general assembly meetings and producing of work plans and reporting systems. Keywords: Member commitment, agricultural cooperatives, ordered …
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Amanuel Shewa
creator: Eric Ndemo
creator: Tibebu Bezabh
creator: Chanyalew Seyoum Aweke
creator: Fassil Eshetu
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Amanuel Shewa, Eric Ndemo, Tibebu Bezabh, Chanyalew Seyoum Aweke, Fassil Eshetu
date: 2026-03-16
publication date: 2026-03-16
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i1.2702

Climate Change Impacts on Agricultural Development in Bamyan Province, Afghanistan
type: item
description: Climate change is one of the main challenges facing agriculture in Afghanistan, particularly in Bamyan Province, which is severely affected due to its cold mountainous climate and limited water resources. This research aims to investigate the impacts of climate change on agricultural activities and the livelihoods of rural communities in Bamyan. A mixed-method approach was used and data were collected through questionnaires, focus groups, and interviews. The target population included farmers, experts, and educated locals. The findings indicate that reduced rainfall, frequent droughts, rising temperatures, and changes in seasonal rainfall patterns have had severe negative impacts on agriculture and livestock in the region. The production of staple crops such as potatoes, wheat, and beans has decreased, and production costs have increased. Additionally, water shortages, soil erosion, and crop pests have reduced productivity, forcing many farmers to abandon their profession. Livestock farmers are also under pressure due to the reduced availability of grazing lands, livestock diseases, and inadequate veterinary services. The results suggest that the lack of modern irrigation infrastructure, the unavailability of improved seeds, and limited access to markets are factors exacerbating these crises. These conditions not only threaten the livelihoods of farmers and livestock breeders but also pose a risk to the region’s food security. This research emphasizes the need for supportive policies and the implementation of development projects to mitigate the effects of climate change and improve the livelihoods of farmers. Keywords: climate change, agricultural communities, agricultural production, Bamyan ____________________________________________________________ Évaluation des impacts du changement climatique sur la production agricole à Bamyan, en Afghanistan Résumé Les changements climatiques constituent l'un des principaux défis auxquels est confrontée l'agriculture en Afg…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Ramazan Ahmadi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Ramazan Ahmadi
date: 2026-03-16
publication date: 2026-03-16
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i1.2726

Planning Adaptation To Climate Change: Practices And Perspectives Of Farmers In Select North Central Nigeria States
type: item
description: Climate adaptation has been established as key to safeguarding the livelihoods of local communities in Africa dependent on agriculture. However, planning adaptation to mitigate climate change via adaptation in North Central Nigeria is unknown; therefore, the purpose of this study was to understand planning adaptation practices to mitigate climate change among farmers in select North Central Nigeria states. The study is based on Robert Chambers’ bottom-up model framework and employed participatory action research (PAR) as the research method, ensuring the continuous and meaningful involvement of farmers and incorporating their knowledge, priorities, and concerns into adaptation programs in North Central Nigeria. Data collection methods included field observations and a focus group discussion. Six themes were identified as adaptation planning strategies (i.e., traditional ecological knowledge, risk of climate change to farmers, irrigation and dry-season farming, improved seedlings, and greenhouse farming/technology). The study also found that farmers in North Central Nigeria have abundant local knowledge and traditional ecological signs to detect climate change. For example, the occurrence of a certain bird species, commonly known as madjankala or sparrows in English, is considered a trustworthy indicator of rainfall fluctuations. The study recommended direct participation of North Central Nigerian farmers in participatory adaptation through the channels of local knowledge documentation, sharing climate experience, and adaptation measures by means of discussion, learning from others, and needs assessments to sustain these adaptation planning strategies. Keywords: Climate adaptation, local knowledge, participatory action research (PAR), smallholder farmers, culturally-relevant strategies, North Central Nigeria _____________________________________________ Adaptation de la planification au changement climatique : pratiques et perspectives des agriculteurs dans certaines…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Mercy Abutsa
creator: Jimme Matyek
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Abutsa, Mercy Awazi, Jimme Matyek
date: 2026-03-16
publication date: 2026-03-16
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i1.2854

Rural Youth and Cacao Farming in the Brazilian Amazon: Interpretations of Their Roles And Challenges
type: item
description: This study investigates the trajectories of rural youth involved in cocoa farming in the Brazilian Transamazon region (Uruará and Medicilândia, Pará). It explores their perspectives on succession, productive management, and family relationships. Conducted in 2024 through semi-structured interviews, the qualitative research was analyzed based on four main categories: inheritance and land access, management and profit-sharing, perceptions of leadership, and family conflict or harmony. The results indicate that young people have a pragmatic view of cocoa farming, considering it a viable activity if technical support and access to credit are provided. Regarding family succession, some youth take on greater autonomy in managing properties, while others still depend on parental administration. Youth leadership is seen as promising, though many acknowledge the need for technical training. Profit distribution is generally centralized among older family members, with some exceptions where young people have greater control over income. Women face additional challenges regarding land access and productive autonomy. Despite optimism surrounding the increased value of cocoa, land tenure insecurity, limited access to credit, and the lack of effective public policies hinder the consolidation of rural life projects for young people. The study concludes that integrated public policies are needed to ensure the sustainability of cocoa farming. Keywords: Cocoa farming, family succession, rural youth _______________________________________________________________________________ Jeunesse rurale et culture de cacao en Amazonie brésilienne : interprétations de leurs rôles et défis Résumé Cette étude examine le parcours de jeunes ruraux impliqués dans la culture du cacao en region transamazonienne brésilienne (Uruará et Medicilândia, au Pará). Elle explore leurs perspectives en matière de succession, de gestion productive et de relations familiales. Menée en 2024 au moyen d'entrevues semi-…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: GISELE DE AGUIAR LIMA
creator: Nathália Thaís Cosmo da Silva
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 GISELE DE AGUIAR LIMA, Nathália Thaís Cosmo da Silva
date: 2026-03-16
publication date: 2026-03-16
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i1.2947

Drinking Water Supply Challenges and Life Straw Use in Rural Zimbabwe
type: item
description: There is an increase on the incidence and prevalence of waterborne diseases due to lack of access to safe and clean water. In addition the rapid climate variability patterns that cumulatively lead to the current climate change status quo has accelerated the burden of disease in Cholera and Diarrhoeal diseases. The study sought to investigate the effectiveness of Life Straw use in order to eliminate pathogens, reduce turbidity and safeguard human health. Convenience sampling was utilised to select sixty – eight (68) participants (Mudanda village residents, trainers, NGOs, and medical personnel). Data was collected through self – administered questionnaires, Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Field Observations (FO). Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 21 and interpreted using descriptive statistics. Findings show that, more females participated in the study (64.2%), were more knowledgeable on Life Straw use (67.8%), concerned about water borne diseases (67.7%) and clean up campaigns (77.1%) respectively. The majority (79.1%) of the respondents observed turbidity reduction after Life Straw use, cleanliness and wholesomeness for consumption (92.5%). Knowledge and attitude levels revealed a poor understanding of device use and functions (82.1%) leading to a fair level of adoption impact (53.7%). Furthermore, there is a need to improve education and awareness on Life Straw in schools (98.5%) and rural areas (98.5%). While, knowledge levels decreased with increasing age significantly. The study recommends an increase in the number of boreholes, health and hygiene education sessions and public awareness campaigns to ensure access to safe drinking water and improved regular use of Life Straw adaptation and adoption.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Reginald Dennis Gwisai
creator: Tineiko Sinyabuwe
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Reginald Dennis Gwisai, Tineiko Sinyabuwe
date: 2025-12-30
publication date: 2025-12-30
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v20i4.2448

Rural Precarity Amidst Changing Policy: Childcare in Rural British Columbia
type: item
description: Childcare is a ubiquitous issue for economic development across Canada, a challenge exacerbated by rural characteristics like low population density, workforce shortages (e.g., early childcare educators), and limited data. New early learning and childcare regulation has and continues to change the policy environment with the goal of increasing the accessibility and affordability of high-quality childcare. These changes have resulted in successes; however, policy changes have also had unintentional consequences for the viability of rural childcare facilities. This article presents the results of a rural case study in the province of British Columbia that aimed to understand the business needs and challenges of rural childcare providers and to use these findings to contribute to the creation of constructive business solutions. Results also identified that the changing policy environment is presenting unanticipated challenges to childcare viability, resulting in a largely unrecognized risk of increasing sector precarity and potential loss of existing rural childcare providers. We identify interventions, both at the regional and provincial scale, that may help in the short term to improve business operations and alleviate unintentional sector vulnerabilities related to changing policy. Interventions include proactive outreach to childcare providers to build relationships and increase knowledge of available support programs, offering in-person one-on-one support, enhancing short-term stability and predictability by providing timelines for policy change, and the creation of on-call or casual workforce services that can easily serve multiple small childcare providers. Keywords: Childcare, rural economic development, policy change _________________________________________________________________ Précarité rurale face à l'évolution des politiques : Garde d’enfants en Colombie-Britannique rurale Résumé Les services de garde d’enfants constituent un enjeu omniprésent pour le d…
subject: Case Studies
  topic: section
creator: Sarah-Patricia Breen
creator: Robyn Peel
creator: Lauren Rethoret
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Sarah-Patricia Breen, Robyn Peel, Lauren Rethoret
date: 2026-03-16
publication date: 2026-03-16
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i1.2727

Co-concevoir des espaces publics inclusifs en contexte rural et périurbain : Un levier pour la cohésion sociale et le développement de ces territoires ?
type: item
description: Cet article s’intéresse à la co-conception des espaces publics en contexte rural et périurbain. Il tend à placer les espaces publics comme des objets pertinents pour travailler sur le développement de ces territoires. En s’appuyant sur deux études de cas tirées d’une recherche expérimentation au sein d’une agence de conception paysagère, il ambitionne de démontrer que les démarches participatives inclusives sont des leviers importants pour la conception d’espaces publics favorables à l’attractivité territoriale. Ces démarches offrent une meilleure compréhension du territoire. Bien qu’elle ne soit pas sans limites, la co-conception favorise aussi la cohésion sociale au sein des territoires ruraux et périurbains. Si un tel processus ne semble pas très éloigné des démarches prenant place dans les territoires urbains, il révèle tout de même la nécessité de s’adapter aux spécificités locales (et donc aux besoins des populations) pour poursuivre cet objectif de développement territorial des petites communes. Mots clés : conception d’espaces publics ; démarche participative ; ruralité ; cohésion sociale ; développement territorial, territoires ruraux, territoires périurbains ___________________________________________________________________________________ Co-designing inclusive public spaces in rural and peri-urban areas: A lever for social cohesion and the development of these territories? Abstract This paper focuses on the co-design of public spaces in rural and peri-urban areas. It places public spaces as relevant objects to work on the development of these territories. Based on two case studies taken from experimental research within a landscape design agency, this article aims to demonstrate that inclusive participatory approaches are important levers for the design of public spaces that promote territorial attractiveness. Indeed, these offer a better understanding of the territory. Although it is not without limits, co-design also promotes social cohesion within ru…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Marie Guilpain
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Marie Guilpain
date: 2025-12-30
publication date: 2025-12-30
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v20i4.2521

Exploring Mental Health Issues Among Rice Farmers in the Philippines In Relation to Climate Change Impacts
type: item
description: In the developing countries of Asia, mental health issues among farmers in relation to climate change impacts are an uncharted research territory. This paper aims to explore the mental health issues and concerns of rice farmers in regard to the impacts of climate change and recommend strategies to support them. This study was conducted in Bulacan province, specifically in Bulakan and Calumpit, Philippines. The effects of climate change have a significant impact on these two towns. Interviews were conducted with rice farmers (n=32), key informants (n = 8), and representatives from other government institutions from August to October 2022. The Biopsychosocial-spiritual model of mental health guided the analysis of this study. Despite national recognition of climate change as a serious phenomenon, the results show that farmers hardly attribute their experiences of natural disasters to climate change. Three themes emerged in relation to farmers’ coping mechanisms to climate change impacts: evasion, keeping a positive mindset, and relying on social support. It appears that challenges in adapting to climate change impact cause farmers to suffer from mental health issues such as worry, fear, sadness, and poor sleep quality. In dealing with the mental health issues of rice farmers, a systemic and holistic approach is necessary. This research contributes to the growing body of studies that establish links between climate change impacts and mental health issues. Keywords: mental health issues or concerns, climate change, climate change impact, biopsychosocial-spiritual model, rice farmers ______________________________________________________________ Étude des problèmes de santé mentale chez les riziculteurs aux Philippines en lien avec les impacts du changement climatique Résumé Dans les pays en développement d'Asie, les problèmes de santé mentale chez les riziculteurs liés aux impacts du changement climatique constituent un domaine de recherche inexploré. Cet article vise à…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Jaime IV Manalo
creator: Perry Del Rosario
creator: Kristine Alagad
creator: Girlie Nora Abrigo
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Jaime IV Manalo, Perry G.I. Del Rosario, Kristine R. Alagad, Girlie Nora A. Abrigo
date: 2025-12-30
publication date: 2025-12-30
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v20i4.2598

From Science to the Table: Patagonian Mycoculture Capacity Building Through Community-Based Educational Workshops
type: item
description: Our paper reports on the implementation and assessment of Patagonian Mycoculture—a series of community-based mycoculture capacity-building workshops delivered in 2022–2023 in the province of Río Negro, Argentina. The results characterized Patagonian Mycoculture as being multi-sectoral because its planning and implementation involved ten governmental and non-governmental entities of different levels and scope. The initiative was also characterized as being multi-sensory given that workshops included visual, auditory, kinesthetic-tactile, olfactory and gustatory components. The workshop series is strong proof of concept of the importance of multi-sectoral and multi-sensory approaches to capacity building related to nutrition and small-scale production of edible mushrooms. Keywords: Mycoculture, fungi, mushrooms, nutrition, community-based workshops ____________________________________________________________ De la science à l'assiette : Renforcement des capacités en myciculture patagonienne par des ateliers éducatifs communautaires Résumé Cet article présente la mise en oeuvre et l'évaluation de myciculture patagonienne, une série d'ateliers communautaires de renforcement des capacités en myciculture organisés en 2022-2023 dans la province de Río Negro, en Argentine. Les résultats ont démontré le caractère multisectoriel de la myciculture patagonienne, sa planification et sa mise en oeuvre ayant impliqué dix entités gouvernementales et non gouvernementales de différents niveaux et de différentes envergures. L'initiative s'est également révélée multisensorielle, les ateliers intégrant des composantes visuelles, auditives, kinesthésiques-tactiles, olfactives et gustatives. Cette série d'ateliers démontre clairement l'importance des approches multisectorielles et multisensorielles pour le renforcement des capacités en matière de nutrition et de production à petite-échelle de champignons comestibles. Mots-clés : Myciculture, fonges, champignons, nutrition, ateliers commun…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Chelsea Jalloh
creator: Paula Peris
creator: Valentina Farías
creator: Roberto Vitale
creator: Javier Mignone
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Chelsea Jalloh, Paula Peris, Valentina Farías, Roberto Vitale, Javier Mignone
date: 2026-03-16
publication date: 2026-03-16
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i1.2918

Designing and Implementing An Intervention Rooted in Cultural Knowledge to Reduce HIV-Related Stigma in Ugandan Schoolchildren
type: item
description: Cultural appropriateness and contextual relevance are key considerations for designing effective interventions to reduce HIV-related stigma. In this article, we outline a comprehensive approach used in the development and implementation of a population health intervention that harnesses traditional knowledge rooted in culture to reduce HIV-related stigma among schoolchildren in Omoro District, Northern Uganda. The intervention was grounded in the values of the Luo people as a vehicle to reduce stigma and enhance HIV outcomes for young people, including those affected by or living with HIV. The development and implementation of the HIV-related stigma intervention incorporated community-based participatory research principles to ensure the intervention was culturally appropriate and relevant. Various stakeholders shared ideas about how to use traditional knowledge alongside contemporary biomedical approaches, with the goal of addressing stigma in the school community. Particular attention is paid to the role of Elders in curriculum development and classroom implementation. This paper contributes practical insights into designing and implementing culturally responsive stigma reduction interventions, showing how collaboration across generations and knowledge systems can be mobilized to address complex health challenges. Keywords: HIV-related stigma reduction, intergenerational learning, traditional knowledge, school-based population health intervention, community-based participatory research _________________________________________________________________ Conception et mise en oeuvre d'une intervention ancrée dans les connaissances culturelles pour réduire la stigmatisation liée au VIH chez les écoliers ougandais Résumé L'adéquation culturelle et la pertinence contextuelle sont des éléments clés pour concevoir des interventions efficaces visant à réduire la stigmatisation liée au VIH. Cet article présente une approche globale utilisée pour développer et mettre en oeuvr…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Bonnie Fournier
creator: Stéphanie Caron-Roy
creator: Francis Akena Adyanga
creator: Susan Sommerfeldt
creator: Joshua B. Mendelsohn
creator: Geoffrey Maina
creator: Olenka Bilash
creator: Geofrey Goddie Okeny
creator: Odoki k'Odur Amanyangole
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Bonnie Fournier, Stéphanie Caron-Roy, Francis Akena, Susan Sommerfeldt, Joshua B Mendelsohn, Geofrey Maina, Olenka Bilash, Geoffrey Goddie Okeny, Odoki k'Odur Amanyangole
date: 2025-12-30
publication date: 2025-12-30
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v20i4.2753

Qualitative Community Needs Assessment for a Rural Town in Montana, USA: Documenting an Emerging Identity of a Community Undergoing Unprecedented Growth
type: item
description: Abstract This study conducts a qualitative community needs assessment in a small, rapidly growing rural town in Montana, aiming to engage local residents in discussions about their cultural identity, priorities, and social service gaps. Over the past 15 years, previous initiatives for community development have struggled to achieve lasting change. Utilizing Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis, the research involved 36 participants from a population of 972, gathered through surveys and focus groups. The findings highlight specific needs for improved services and infrastructure while uncovering deeper community dynamics, such as isolation, a longing for belonging, and reactions to growth. Organized into four primary themes, the results reveal that the studied town’s community faces challenges related to limited access to services, workforce retention, aging population, and cultural shifts. Participants expressed concerns about the impact of these transitions and a desire for solutions that enhance recreational and social opportunities. This research emphasizes the ongoing challenges faced by rural areas in adapting to evolving needs, reflecting broader issues experienced across similar Montana communities. Keywords: Community needs assessment, rural population, population growth, Montana, focus groups, qualitative method, interpretive phenomenological analysis ______________________________________________________ Évaluation qualitative des besoins d'une communauté rurale du Montana (États-Unis) : Documenter l'émergence d'une identité au sein d'une communauté en pleine croissance Résumé Cette étude présente une évaluation qualitative des besoins d'une petite ville rurale du Montana, en forte expansion. Elle vise à impliquer les résidents locaux dans des discussions sur leur identité culturelle, leurs priorités et les lacunes des services sociaux. Au cours des 15 dernières années, les initiatives de développement communautaire ont peiné à induire des changements dur…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Anna Bartkowiak
creator: Heidi Baumgartner
creator: Lindsay DeGroot
creator: Olympia Gioulekas
creator: Jessica Gerthe
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Anna Bartkowiak, Heidi Baumgartner, Lindsay DeGroot, Olympia Gioulekas, Jessica Gerthe
date: 2025-12-30
publication date: 2025-12-30
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v20i4.2740

Artificial Intelligence and Rural Health Equity: Perspectives from Northern Ontario
type: item
description: Healthcare is becoming increasingly reliant on artificial intelligence (AI). However, marginalized people, including those in rural and remote communities, risk being bypassed or ignored by the AI revolution. This paper presents findings from a mixed-methods study exploring the perspectives of healthcare workers in Northern Ontario, a vast and mostly rural region of Canada, characterized by cultural diversity and an under-resourced healthcare system. We collected data using an anonymous online survey. The data suggested that participants had concerns about readiness, infrastructure, resourcing, cultural competence, language availability, workforce education, and the importance of local community representation during AI development and implementation. Some participants expressed optimism about AI’s potential, but also warned against an urban-derived, one-size-fits-all implementation. Our study highlights that healthcare AI must be contextualised, guided by equity considerations and shaped by the actual experiences of rural practitioners. These findings contribute to a broader understanding of how inclusive healthcare AI should be developed to meet rural and remote community needs. Keywords: Artificial intelligence, rural and remote, healthcare workers _____________________________________________ Intelligence artificielle et équité en matière de santé rurale : perspectives du nord de l’Ontario Résumé Le système de santé dépend de plus en plus de l’intelligence artificielle (IA). Cependant, les personnes marginalisées, notamment celles des communautés rurales et éloignées, risquent d’être laissées pour compte ou ignorées par la révolution de l’IA. Cet article présente les résultats d’une étude utilisant des méthodes mixtes qui explore les perspectives des professionnels de la santé du Nord de l’Ontario, une vaste région essentiellement rurale du Canada, caractérisée par une diversité culturelle et un système de santé sous-financé. Nous avons recueilli des données au …
subject: Case Studies
  topic: section
creator: Yifan Zhang
creator: Sarah Newbery
creator: David Savage
creator: Brian Ross
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Yifan Zhang, Sarah Newbery, David Savage, Brian Ross
date: 2025-09-25
publication date: 2025-09-25
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v20i3.2876

Perceptual Analysis of Mountain Zone Governance: Case of the Tichoukt Massif–Middle Atlas, Morocco
type: item
description: This article studies the cognitive aspects which guide public and private actors in the conception of development plans for mountainous areas in Morocco. Our ambition is to understand how local actors perceive the specificities of the development of mountainous areas in Morocco. We used a combined method to collect and analyse data in the Tichoukt Massif; a mountainous area located in the Moroccan Middle Atlas. The results of the strategic analysis using the Mactor method were submitted to a panel of experts for confirmation (Delphi method). Our results suggest that the absence of a reference framework that guides local actors in the conception of development plans for mountainous areas of Morocco hinders the convergence of collective interventions. The complexity of the problem is linked to the difficulties inherent in evaluating the cognitive convergence of multisectoral interventions. The overlapping of objectives, the multiplicity of interventions and the fragmentation of their areas are limiting factors. Our study is a contribution to the study of development problems in rural areas in Morocco. The results obtained can be used to deepen investigations into the cognitive factors of the governance of public policies. Our research strategy greatly increases the reliability and coherence of the construct. Keywords: Territorial governance, mountainous areas, local actors, cognitive framework, Tichoukt Massif ______________________________________________________________ Analyse perceptive de la gouvernance des zones montagneuses : le cas du massif du Tichoukt – Moyen Atlas, Maroc Résumé Cet article étudie les aspects cognitifs qui guident les acteurs publics et privés dans la conception des plans de développement des zones montagneuses du Maroc. Notre objectif est de comprendre comment les acteurs locaux perçoivent les spécificités du développement de ces zones. Nous avons utilisé une méthode combinée pour collecter et analyser des données dans le massif du Tichoukt…
subject: Case Studies
  topic: section
creator: Youssef Belhaj
creator: Mohamed Oucherrou
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 BELHAJ, Mohamed OUCHERROU
date: 2025-12-30
publication date: 2025-12-30
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v20i4.2767

Institutional Resilience And Sustainable Livelihoods in Rural South Africa’s Alfred Nzo District Municipality
type: item
description: This study investigates how rural communities in South Africa’s Alfred Nzo District Municipality respond to environmental shocks, pandemics, and other crises, using the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF) and institutional theory. With local government as the institution most closely linked to rural citizens, the research examines the role of governance in enabling or constraining community resilience and livelihood sustainability. A qualitative case study design included 11 in-depth interviews and two focus group discussions with key informants. The findings reveal that geographic isolation, poor infrastructure, and the underutilization of natural resources contribute to the area’s persistent socioeconomic marginalization. Local institutions are pivotal in shaping access to critical resources, such as land, water, and markets, especially during crises. Three key themes emerged: infrastructure deficits, institutional capacity limitations, and erratic livelihood resilience. The study finds that weak and inflexible governance structures significantly exacerbate community vulnerabilities and hinder the ability of subsistence farming communities to adapt to and recover from disruptions. The research identifies strategic opportunities for growth in agriculture, tourism, and cultural heritage. Unlocking this potential requires targeted infrastructure investment and institutional reforms to improve service delivery and resource accessibility. The study highlights the critical importance of adaptive and inclusive local governance in promoting sustainable livelihoods in vulnerable rural settings. Keywords: sustainable livelihoods framework, institutional theory, institutional capacity, rural resilience __________________________________________________ Résilience institutionnelle et moyens de subsistance durables dans le district municipal d'Alfred Nzo, en Afrique du Sud Résumé Cette étude examine la manière dont les communautés rurales du district municipal d'Alfred Nzo…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Betty Claire Mubangizi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Betty Claire Mubangizi
date: 2025-12-30
publication date: 2025-12-30
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v20i4.2718

Disaster Preparedness and Responsibility Perception In Disaster Situations in Rural Madagascar
type: item
description: This research highlights the needs of rural communities and enhances disaster communication effectiveness. Using qualitative secondary data from tropical storm Filipo’s impact on two communes in Madagascar in March 2024, we discovered the community was unprepared to deal with the disaster due to insufficient or absent information. In coping with the disaster, they attributed responsibility to imaginary and proximity entities. We offer two key recommendations: strengthen political will to utilize existing means of communication for rural outreach, and foster public will for community resilience. The findings have broader implications for rural disaster response globally. Keywords: responsibility, information, disaster preparedness, public will, political will, Madagascar _________________________________ Préparation aux catastrophes et perception des responsabilités en situation de catastrophe en milieu rural à Madagascar Résumé Cette recherche met en évidence les besoins des communautés rurales et améliore l'efficacité de la communication en cas de catastrophe. L'utilisation de données secondaires qualitatives relatives à l'impact de la tempête tropicale Filipo sur deux communes de Madagascar en mars 2024 a révélé que la communauté n'était pas préparée à faire face à la catastrophe en raison d'un manque d'information, voire d'une absence d'information. Face à la catastrophe, les communautés ont attribué la responsabilité à des entités imaginaires et de proximité. Nous proposons deux recommandations clés : renforcer la volonté politique d'utiliser les moyens de communication existants pour atteindre les zones rurales et encourager la volonté publique en faveur de la résilience communautaire. Les résultats ont des implications plus larges pour les interventions en cas de catastrophes rurales à l'échelle mondiale. Mots-clés : responsabilité, information, préparation aux catastrophes, volonté publique, volonté politique, Madagascar
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Samantha Davis
creator: Joel Raveloharimisy
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Samantha Davis, Joel Raveloharimisy
date: 2025-09-25
publication date: 2025-09-25
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v20i3.2712

Exploring the Crisis: Factors Affecting Large Animal Veterinary Services in Northern Ontario's Rural Regions
type: item
description: The large territory of Northern Ontario encompasses 80% of Ontario’s land but hosts only 2.52% of its farms, despite its tremendous potential for agricultural growth. There is an excellent strategic opportunity to expand livestock production in this region to meet rising food demands. However, a critical barrier is the lack of veterinary services in rural Northern Ontario. Veterinary care is essential for disease prevention, emergency treatment, food safety, and overall farm sustainability. Without reliable veterinary support, the risk of livestock disease, economic losses, and public health concerns increases significantly. This crisis is fueled by a shortage of veterinary professionals and clinics in rural and remote areas, as most practitioners are concentrated in urban centers. Moreover, the large distance between farms and the long travel time make the crisis more severe in rural areas. Besides, the trend of rising pet ownership during the COVID-19 pandemic has led veterinary professionals to prioritize companion animal care, which leaves livestock producers in Northern Ontario facing ongoing challenges in accessing timely and adequate veterinary services. This research examines the scope and causes of the veterinary service shortage in Northern Ontario. It aims to (1) present the current landscape of veterinary crisis in rural communities, and (2) identify underlying causes and potential solutions. Findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions to support regional agricultural development. Keywords: Veterinary Crisis, Northern Ontario, Livestock farming, food security, Agriculture _____________________________________________ Analyse de la crise : facteurs affectant les services vétérinaires pour les grands animaux dans les régions rurales du Nord de l'Ontario Résumé Le vaste territoire du Nord de l’Ontario couvre 80 % de la superficie de la province, mais n’abrite que 2,52 % de ses exploitations agricoles, malgré son énorme potentiel de croissa…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Ferdous Farhana Huq
creator: Sara Epp
creator: Minerva Cancilla-Styles
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Ferdous Farhana Huq, Sara Epp, Minerva Cancilla-Styles
date: 2026-03-16
publication date: 2026-03-16
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v21i1.2799

At the Crossroads: Examining the Role of Place and Gender As Predictors of Cannabis Use-Related Driving Behaviour
type: item
description: Since cannabis was legalized in Canada in 2018, policy observers and researchers have devoted a great deal of attention to emerging trends and patterns and their implications for protecting health and safety. To inform this literature and policy discussions, this paper presents findings from a study that examines the relationship between place and gender in determining the likelihood of driving, and of being a passenger with someone who is driving, after using cannabis. Using 2019 data from the National Cannabis Survey, logistic regression analyses show that expected gender differences in self-reported driving after use of cannabis in larger urban centres were significantly smaller in rural parts of Canada. Our finding of no gender gap in less populated areas suggests there is a need for interventions more responsive to changing social norms in the legalization era that make women just as likely to take risks. Future harm reduction and educational initiatives would benefit from a better understanding of intersecting attributes of place and gender, informing services and programs attuned to the local needs of rural female populations. Keywords: driving after using cannabis, impaired driving, cannabis legalization, rural Canada, harm reduction, gender _____________________________________________________________________________ À la croisée des chemins : Examen du rôle du lieu et du genre en tant que facteurs prédictifs du comportement au volant lié à la consommation de cannabis Résumé Depuis la légalisation du cannabis au Canada en 2018, les observateurs et les chercheurs en matière de politique se sont penchés sur les tendances et les schémas émergents, ainsi que sur leurs implications pour la protection de la santé et de la sécurité. Afin d’éclairer ces travaux et les discussions politiques, cet article présente les résultats d’une étude qui examine le lien entre le lieu et le genre dans la probabilité de conduire, ou d’être passager d’une personne qui conduit, apr…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Meghan Wrathall
creator: Nick Cristiano
creator: David Walters
creator: Andrew Hathaway
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Meghan Wrathall, Nick Cristiano, David Walters, Andrew Hathaway
date: 2025-12-30
publication date: 2025-12-30
doi: 10.63315/jrcd.v20i4.2737