The Government of Rwanda has entered into a new partnership with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture aimed at transforming the country’s agriculture sector through innovation, modern farming techniques, and increased food production.
The agreement was signed between Rwanda’s Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources and IITA under the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT Phase II) program. The initiative focuses on scaling up proven agricultural technologies that help farmers adapt to climate change while improving overall crop yields.
🌾 Strengthening Modern Agriculture
Speaking on the agreement, the State Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Dr. Solange Uwituze, highlighted that this collaboration will play a key role in boosting productivity and promoting modern farming systems across the country.
She explained that the program will help improve soil fertility, increase access to improved seeds, and enhance training for agricultural experts and extension officers. The initiative is also expected to create employment opportunities for young people in the agriculture sector.
“This partnership will help us improve crop productivity, access quality seeds, and train agronomists, while also creating jobs for youth in agriculture,” she said.
Dr. Uwituze also reaffirmed Rwanda’s long-term ambition of significantly increasing agricultural output by 2050 through modern and sustainable farming practices.
Youth at the Center of Agricultural Transformation
The IITA Country Director in Rwanda, Matieyedou Konlambigue, emphasized that youth empowerment is a key pillar of the program. According to him, the initiative seeks to encourage young people to view agriculture as a profitable and sustainable business.
“We want young people to treat agriculture as a business, especially in seed production, so they can actively contribute to increasing food production,” he said.
He added that the program will connect youth with training opportunities, financial support, and market access by linking them with established seed companies and agricultural partners.
🚀 Immediate Implementation and Regional Scope
Konlambigue also noted that implementation will begin immediately due to the urgency of agricultural transformation needs.
“We can say we start tomorrow because time is limited and must be used effectively,” he said.
The project is expected to run for two years in its initial phase, targeting about 150 youth-led agribusiness initiatives, particularly in the seed production value chain.
🌍 Regional Agricultural Impact
Beyond Rwanda, the program will be implemented across six African countries, including:
- Rwanda
- Uganda
- Tanzania
- Mozambique
- Malawi
- Nigeria
The initiative is funded by the African Development Bank in collaboration with the Government of Germany, with a total budget of €5 million. Rwanda is set to receive approximately €1 million to support local implementation.
