FEATURED - Transforming agriculture in Rwanda: Govt initiative's impact on livelihoods, productivity

Rwanda’s hilly terrain has historically posed a challenge to its agricultural productivity. Most farmlands are on slopes, leaving them vulnerable to soil erosion and limiting productivity. However, a bold initiative by the Rwandan government is rewriting this narrative, bringing transformative change to the country’s agricultural sector. In 2022, the Government of Rwanda secured a $300 million loan from the World Bank to implement the Commercialization and De-risking for Agricultural Transformation (CDAT) project. This ambitious programme is designed to combat soil erosion, improve fertility, and enhance agricultural output through strategic interventions such as terracing, swamp rehabilitation, and the promotion of climate-smart agriculture. ALSO READ: How-soil-erosion-is-posing-a-threat-on-food-security According to Ernest Uzaribara, CDAT’s Project Coordinator, the initiative has already created over 70,000 jobs and generated more than Rwf 10 billion in income through terracing projects. The programme has terraced 11,000 hectares of hilly slopes and plans to rehabilitate 18,000 hectares of swamps, directly benefiting 14 districts nationwide. One of the beneficiaries is Valentine Nyirakanani, a farmer in Mata Sector, Nyaruguru District. For decades, she struggled with low yields, but CDAT’s intervention changed her life. “This season, I expect over 400 kilogrammes of beans from my terraced garden—a tenfold increase!” she exclaimed. With the improved income, Nyirakanani has been able to buy livestock and pay school fees for her child. The ripple effects of CDAT’s efforts extend beyond increased agricultural yields. In Nyanza District, the project has made significant progress in enhancing soil retention and boosting crop productivity. It has completed 573 hectares of radical terraces out of the 756 planned and 758 hectares of progressive terraces out of 830 planned. Additionally, four kilometres of riverbanks have been protected, and nearly 5,000 tonnes of fertiliser have been distributed to farmers, empowering them to achieve better yields and practice sustainable farming. ALSO READ: Agricultural-output-set-to-increase-by-10-in-2025-what-will-drive-growth The project’s socioeconomic impact is equally noteworthy. About 5,324 jobs have been created in Nyanza District alone, injecting Rwf 1.4 billion into the local economy. These opportunities have improved livelihoods and fostered a spirit of self-sufficiency among residents. Nyanza District Mayor Erasme Ntazinda praised the initiative, noting, “We have seen a transformation in the livelihoods of our residents since the project arrived. People can now afford health insurance, send their children to school, and invest in livestock like goats and pigs. The project has brought hope to many families.” Faina Uwineza, another resident, used her income from terracing work to open a mini-bar and butcher shop, earning her the affectionate nickname “rich lady” in her community. “I’m proud to be an example of what’s possible when communities are empowered,” she said. The benefits of the project also extend to environmental conservation. By addressing critical issues such as soil erosion and promoting land husbandry technologies, CDAT is not only enhancing productivity but also ensuring long-term sustainability. Farmers now have access to low-interest loans, with rates as low as 8%, enabling them to adopt modern agricultural technologies and expand their operations. ALSO READ: Agric-sector-secures-300-million-for-irrigation-insurance For farmers like Mary Uwimana in Nyanza District, these interventions have been life-changing. “I never had a cow at home,” she shared, “but I managed to buy one. Now I get manure and have increased my farm yields.” Beyond farming, CDAT’s impact is seen in the reduction of unemployment and crime rates. According to André Kamana, Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Development in Huye District, the project has kept youth engaged, significantly reducing idleness and related crimes. “The flow of funds into residents’ pockets has brought stability and opportunity,” he said. In Kayonza District, the Commercialization and De-risking for Agricultural Transformation (CDAT) project is making significant strides in boosting agricultural productivity, conserving the environment, and improving livelihoods. The project is set to maintain 530 hectares of radical terraces across the district, a critical initiative to enhance soil retention and combat erosion in the area’s sloped farmlands. These terraces are already creating meaningful economic opportunities, with over 2,000 residents earning a daily wage of Rwf 2,000 for their work on the terraces. “One of the most impactful components of CDAT in Kayonza expected to enhance livelihoods is the rehabilitation of the Kageyo marshland, which spans over 2,000 hectares. This initiative is expected to benefit a substantial number of residents by increasing agricultural productivity and improving water management in the area,” said John Bosco Nyemazi, Kayonza District Mayor. In addition to its work on land management, CDAT is also fostering synergies between the livestock and agricultural sectors. The programme has selected 26 projects to receive funding aimed at transforming the livestock sector, ensuring it complements ongoing agricultural advancements. This holistic approach is designed to drive sustainable development and improve food security.

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FEATURED - Transforming agriculture in Rwanda: Govt initiative's impact on livelihoods, productivity