E-SOKO : Rwanda clicking its way to growth

As Rwanda continues to integrate the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to all sectors of the economy, it is a remarkable achievement that the agricultural sector has not been left behind. The largest percentage of Rwanda’s population depends on agricultural production which makes the activity an integral part of the economy. Therefore, by introducing e-soko, a product that will enable farmers and traders to access information on agricultural products in markets, the government is clearly opening a window of opportunity that will encourage this sector to perform even better. The new concept sets a platform that helps do away with exploitation of our farmers. Now, they will be able to fix farm gate prices, aware of retail prices in the main markets. That way, the big gap normally created by exploitative middlemen will be bridged, allowing farmers to take home a good portion of their hard earned income. Other major benefits accruing to this concept include access to timely information on weather patterns, better and spontaneous agricultural practices, improved networking among farmers and above all, more incomes. In an era where the whole world is embracing ICT, this development is also a landmark achievement that will eventually facilitate trade for economic development. With the use of ICTs in this sector, the stage has been set for our rural farmers to do away with obsolete farming methods and adopt modern and productive farming that eventually will transform our nation. Agriculturalists should utilize this new technological tool not only as a way to keep up with the trends but as an innovative approach to maximize production and returns from this sector. Ends

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E-SOKO : Rwanda clicking its way to growth