Mindset Change and Rural Transformation: Evidence from the URDT Epicentre Strategy in Kagadi, Uganda

Rural transformation remains a central development challenge in many developing countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where livelihoods are predominantly agrarian. Despite numerous government interventions in Uganda, rural communities continue to experience persistent poverty, low productivity, and dependency attitudes. This study examined the relationship between mindset change, as promoted through the Uganda Rural Development and Training Programme (URDT) Epicentre Strategy, and rural transformation in Kagadi Sub-County. A quantitative correlational research design was employed, drawing on data from 285 respondents selected using cluster, systematic, and simple random sampling techniques. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and linear regression. The findings reveal a statistically significant positive relationship between mindset change and rural transformation (r = 0.519, p < 0.01). Regression results further indicate that mindset change significantly predicts rural transformation (β = 0.377, p < 0.001). The study demonstrates that consciousness-raising and training interventions contribute to improvements in household income, occupational structures, household amenities, and urban–rural linkages. The study concludes that mindset change is a critical driver of rural transformation and recommends the scaling up of the Epicentre Strategy to enhance community-driven development in Uganda and similar contexts.