Rwanda : 76 hectares set for rice farming

Local farmers during the distribution exercise

NYAGATARE: Authorities in Nyagatare district on Friday officially handed over 76.5 hectares of marshland to residents for rice farming.

The government, through Rural Sector Support project (RSSP), invested over Rwf8 billion in Kilimburi rice farming in the district.

Large amount of money was invested mainly in setting up irrigation canals, drainage and hydraulic structures to enable farmers maintain sustainable rice farming.

The project is expected to produce 21,000 tonnes of rice annually with a projected annual income of Rwf4.6b.

In an interview, James Gakuru, Rwempasha sector executive secretary said that the piece of land distributed to local farmers will give green light to rice production in the district.

“These hectares of marshland were given to 153 local farmers. This is the first phase and the next step will see local investors acquiring large chunks for production,” he said.

He added that farmers will start exploiting their land, effective this season.

During the distribution exercise that involved drawing secret numbers, farmers hailed government for its continued efforts in developing modern agriculture.

“We delighted to be given land for rice farming. We are ready to show the government that we shall respond to their efforts of maintaining modern agriculture,” said Emanuel Gashumba, one the farmers after receiving 3hectares of land for rice farming.

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