Smallholder farmers in Burera, Musanze ‘reaping big’ thanks to new agriculture insurance scheme

Farmers in Northern Province are reaping from the National Agriculture Insurance Scheme (NAIS) which supports them to curb disaster related losses, providing crucial protection against the region's frequent natural hazards. According to figures from the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI), 161,445 farmers have insured their crops, and 49,854 have insured their livestock countrywide. ALSO READ: Fruit farmers seek insurance coverage Since the scheme’s inception in 2019, the government has disbursed over Rwf6 billion in compensation and provided over Rwf5 billion in subsidies. Théoneste Habimana, a beneficiary in Gataraga Sector, Musanze District, praised the scheme, noting its impact on potato farmers who previously faced substantial challenges. Habimana leads KOABUIRU, a 40-member potato cooperative located near Volcanoes National Park—a prime growing area. The region, however, experiences unpredictable floods and heavy rainfall, a challenge for many famers. Burera and Musanze districts, located in a volcanic region vital to the nation's food production – particularly Irish potatoes grown in the fertile volcanic soil – usually grapple with landslides and floods. ALSO READ: Over Rwf2bn paid in compensation to livestock farmers Before this insurance scheme, we farmed with the constant fear of losing everything, including our land, Habimana explained, stressing that smallholder farmers now feel safe. Now, we farm with hope, knowing we're protected against losses. Farmers in Burera District, also known for its fertile soil, share similar experiences. We lost approximately 80 hectares of potatoes to unforeseen dry spells caused by climate change, said Théobar Ndacyayisenga. The insurance scheme allowed us to recover those losses. He also emphasized the importance of insurance against pests and diseases. Clarisse Manishimwe, a farmer from Muhoza Sector, Musanze District, recounted her experience with poultry farming. It's a valuable initiative, she said. I lost 48 out of 500 chickens, but the insurance compensated me, allowing me to continue my business without setbacks. Joseph Museruka, the Project Manager of NAIS at Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB-SPIU), stated that farmers currently receive a 40 percent government subsidy on their premiums across the country. In response to requests for an increased subsidy, of 50 percent or above, from the current 40 percent subsidy, Museruka assured farmers that the idea has been well received and would be considered by relevant institutions.”

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Smallholder farmers in Burera, Musanze ‘reaping big’ thanks to new agriculture insurance scheme