By Charles.muchoki@gmail.com
In a groundbreaking move to propel Rwanda’s agricultural sector, the Rwanda Agriculture & Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) has embarked on a strategic collaboration with the Pan-Africa Bean Research Alliance. This collaborative effort addresses a pivotal component of Rwanda’s food security – the production of bean seeds. The joint initiative culminated in a one-day meeting that brought together an array of stakeholders representing various facets of the bean value chain.
The meeting, which took place at an esteemed venue in Kigali, marked an essential juncture in Rwanda’s agricultural landscape. Dignitaries, including government officials, partners, and investors, convened to strategize for the imminent 2024A season, reflecting a concerted push to enhance bean seed production and sustainability.
Beans, an integral part of Rwandan diets, are a staple food source and a crucial protein provider for the population. Recognizing their significance, RAB and @_PABRA joined hands to forge a path towards improved bean seed production. The collaborative effort aims to revolutionize the approach to bean farming by fostering synergistic relationships among stakeholders in the value chain.
As discussions and workshops spanned the day, an air of anticipation gripped the venue. The spirit of collaboration and innovation was palpable as experts and professionals delved into various dimensions of the bean value chain. Partnerships formed during the meeting are expected to reshape the landscape of bean farming in Rwanda, with a renewed emphasis on sustainability and resilience.
The concluding remarks of the meeting were delivered by Dr. Flora Umulisa, the Deputy Director-General of RAB, who provided a resounding call to action. Dr. Umulisa emphasized the critical role of companies and partners in actively engaging with smallholder farmers. She underlined the necessity of securing a sustainable bean value chain and fostering robust market linkages. Her words resonated with the importance of inclusive growth in the agricultural sector.
“Companies and partners must play a pivotal role in our journey forward. Our smallholder farmers are the backbone of our agricultural landscape, and their engagement is paramount,” remarked Dr. Umulisa. Her words echoed a collective sentiment that active collaboration with farmers is essential for a resilient and prosperous agricultural future.
Furthermore, Dr. Umulisa urged stakeholders across the bean value chain to embark on introspection. She encouraged contemplation and innovation, calling for strategies that could enhance farmers’ adoption and usage of improved bean seeds. This forward-thinking approach underscores the commitment of RAB and @_PABRA to not only boost production but also to ensure the accessibility of high-quality seeds that can lead to better crop yields.