The Rwanda Standards Board (RSB) warns that failing to meet quality standards has serious health consequences. The public is therefore urged to avoid consuming foods that do not meet these standards, as they are a major cause of life-threatening diseases.
This message was reinforced during an ongoing awareness campaign by RSB, the National Child Development Agency (NCDA), and the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI) in Rubavu District, focusing on maintaining the quality of fruits and vegetables.
Consumers, traders, and food suppliers—including those in hotels and restaurants—were urged to pay close attention to the quality of vegetables and fruits, as even a small mistake can put many lives at risk.
Meanwhile, some residents expressed their commitment to purchasing high-quality fruits and vegetables.
Ukoyoyagezi Athanase, a resident of Gisenyi City, emphasized the importance of monitoring how vegetables are grown, harvested, stored, and consumed in a timely manner.
“When vegetables spoil, they become toxic. Eating them can cause stomach problems and other illnesses,” he said.
Mukamihigo Agnes added, “To prepare good-quality isombe, we wash it thoroughly and add all the necessary spices. If it is not properly prepared, it can cause health issues for the person consuming it.”
Rwabutogo Jeanne, a fruit and vegetable seller at Gisenyi Market, said that vendors take care to ensure the cleanliness and quality of their products, following the advice given by relevant authorities.
She said, “The Kwihaza program is beneficial because we, as traders, can now access ripe fruits from within Rwanda, ensuring they reach our customers in good condition.”
Karigirwa Rehema, a farmer and trader of various fruits and vegetables, noted that prioritizing food quality has enabled him to supply four- and five-star hotels, including Serena Hotel.
He said, “The quality of fruits and vegetables is crucial. Ensuring compliance with standards adds value to the products.”
Hakizimana Bella Naivasha, an RSB worker in the Zamukana Quality program, stressed that neglecting the quality of fruits and vegetables can have severe health consequences.
She explained that quality guidelines have been established to ensure food safety throughout the supply chain, from farm to consumer.
“Our goal in the food chain is to protect products from the farm to the final consumer, including those who process them to add value,” she said.
Hakizimana further noted that while fruits and vegetables are nutrient-rich and help prevent disease, they can spoil quickly if not stored properly.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 600 million people worldwide suffer from foodborne illnesses each year, and approximately 420,000 people die due to contaminated food. Alarmingly, 40% of these fatalities occur among children under the age of five.
Gabriel UZABAKIRIHO / KIGALI TIMES
Source – UMUSEKE