Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Rwanda’s agricultural sector, urging farmers nationwide to double their crop yields as a key driver of food security and economic growth.
Launching the 2026 Agriculture Season A in Nyaruguru District’s 115-hectare Urwonjya marshland, the Prime Minister joined farmers in planting maize and emphasized the goal of raising maize productivity from 5.2 tonnes per hectare to at least 10 tonnes. He stressed that boosting agricultural output is essential not only for household incomes but also for financing health insurance and education.
Under the second phase of the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), Rwanda plans to raise yields of major staples—including cassava, maize, and beans—by at least 50 percent. The premier encouraged farmers to adopt modern practices, use quality seeds and fertilizers, irrigate during dry spells, and embrace insurance against natural risks.
Farmers welcomed the initiative, noting significant progress since government-led redevelopment of the marshland in 2008. Cooperative leader Ferdinand Banzubaze said maize yields had already risen from 1.5 to 5 tonnes per hectare, while potato harvests had increased fivefold. He expressed confidence in reaching the 10-tonne maize target with continued support. However, farmers like Esperance Musabyimana highlighted ongoing challenges, particularly in accessing sufficient fertilizers.
During the visit, Nsengiyumva also toured Mata Tea Factory, which operates below capacity due to seasonal shortages and poor road infrastructure. Managing Director Cedrick Niyomugabo revealed plans to expand plantations and called for better transport networks. The Prime Minister pledged government action to address these bottlenecks while urging collaboration between farmers, cooperatives, and factory operators.
Looking ahead, Rwanda’s tea export revenues are projected to rise from $107.7 million to $164.4 million by 2029, supported by efforts to boost both production and quality in line with the country’s agricultural transformation agenda.
