From Struggle to Success: How a Seed and Irrigation Project Transformed Kayonza Residents’ Lives

By Elias Hakizimana.

In the lush terraces of Kabarondo and Murama Sectors in Kayonza District, a transformative journey has unfolded for residents, thanks to the Kayonza Irrigation and Integrated Watershed Management Project (KWIIP).

Supported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, this initiative has significantly improved the lives of many, enabling them to overcome the harsh impacts of drought and achieve agricultural success.

One such resident, Pascasie Abimana, recalls the struggles before the KWIIP project.

“Before they started working here, the crops did not yield well, and we hardly got any produce. But now, thanks to the terraces they constructed, we see increasing yields. Irrigation has greatly helped because we water these fruits, and they will provide a good harvest. Previously, I harvested about 50 kilograms of beans, but now, due to the trees we planted and irrigation, I expect to get 70 or 80 kilograms.”

The transformative impact of the KWIIP project was highlighted on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, during a visit by Dr. Gerardine Mukeshimana, Vice President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and State Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources Eric Rwigamba.

The delegation visited various fruit plantations, including avocados, oranges, and jackfruits, to witness firsthand the project’s success.

Dr. Gerardine Mukeshimana confirmed that the project has played a crucial role in combating climate change, allowing residents to farm and harvest successfully, thereby improving their livelihoods.

“IFAD works with countries to improve the livelihoods of citizens. This project has been crucial in addressing climate change, as this area was at risk of becoming a desert due to frequent droughts,” she said.

“The goal was to find which crops would be most beneficial to the residents in the long term, especially those affected by drought. That’s why we visited the fruit plantations to see how they are coping with climate change and land preservation, as the land was deteriorating. The key takeaway for IFAD is that small-scale projects like these can significantly transform residents’ lives.” She added.

Dr. Mukeshimana also emphasized the importance of knowledge and innovation in improving residents’ livelihoods without requiring substantial funds.

“The focus is on impactful projects or innovations that can benefit other countries as well, bringing about positive changes where residents have these opportunities. These farmers made the most of their chances, achieving a lot with $17 million, demonstrating that even small funds can achieve great results,” she said.

Kayonza District Mayor, John Bosco Nyemazi, praised the KWIIP project for its transformative impact.

“The KWIIP project is changing the lives of Kayonza residents, particularly in Kabarondo and Murama Sectors,” he noted.

The project has successfully planted various fruits over 1,300 hectares in these sectors, with a small portion in Remera Sector, Ngoma District.

Nyemazi explained that the project currently involves around 4,000 people, with a goal of reaching 40,000 beneficiaries by its completion.

KWIIP is an $85 million initiative, with $21 million allocated for youth initiatives in agriculture and livestock development.

Mayor Nyemazi highlighted other planned activities under the KWIIP project.

“In the second phase of the project, it will extend to Ndego Sector, where over 2,000 hectares will be irrigated, including areas in Kabarondo, Kanyeganyege, and other planned activities covering 2,000 hectares in Mwiri.” He said.

Additionally, a solar-powered Rugazi artificial pond has been constructed for irrigation purposes. The project has also supported livestock farming by constructing 15 dams for cattle irrigation and 20 boreholes providing clean water to residents.

The KWIIP project, funded by IFAD and implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources through the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), aims to improve the well-being of residents through various initiatives.

As the journey of transformation continues, the residents of Kayonza District look forward to a future of sustained agricultural productivity and improved livelihoods.

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