Kirehe terracing project delivers major gains in crop yields

By The Inspirer.

Farmers in Gatore Sector, Kirehe District, are recording sharply increased agricultural yields following the construction of hillside terraces under the LDCF3 project, implemented by the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) to help communities adapt to climate change.

Residents say the intervention has transformed an area once heavily affected by soil erosion into productive farmland, with some farmers reporting harvests up to five times higher than before.

Before the project, farming on the steep slopes of Gatore was increasingly unviable. Heavy rains routinely washed away crops, fertilizer and fertile topsoil, leaving farmers with poor harvests and worsening food insecurity.

“Life had become very difficult,” said Sylvie Uwingabire, a farmer from Muganza Cell. “Our children were not eating well, we could not afford health insurance, and farming no longer gave us hope.”

Through the LDCF3 project, REMA supported the construction of 100 hectares of progressive terraces and 215 hectares of radical terraces. Beneficiaries were organized into the Zamuka Muhinzi cooperative to improve coordination and sustainability.

Uwingabire says the impact has been immediate. “I used to harvest less than 100 kilograms of maize. Today, I harvest more than 500 kilograms. I can now feed my three children, pay for community health insurance, and cover school expenses.”

The sector agronomist, Nsengiyumva Pacifique, said the area previously suffered from severe land degradation, with some plots nearly turning into wasteland.

“This project came at the right time,” he said. “Yields that were once around one tonne of maize per hectare have risen to as much as five tonnes in some areas.”

He noted that although this season’s expected average of 5.5 tonnes per hectare was slightly affected by reduced rainfall, overall production remains significantly higher than before. The terraces also help retain moisture, keeping soils productive even during dry spells.

Charles Sindayigaya, LDCF3 project coordinator for Kirehe and Gakenke districts, said the project has reversed years of environmental damage.

“When we arrived, the land had lost most of its fertility,” he said. “The terraces have protected the remaining soil, reduced erosion and improved the effectiveness of fertilizers, resulting in impressive crop performance.”

According to Sindayigaya, 400 hectares of progressive terraces have so far been completed, with an additional 100 hectares planned.

Kirehe District Mayor Rangira Bruno praised the project for delivering both economic and environmental benefits.

“This partnership with REMA has helped farmers improve productivity while strengthening resilience to climate change,” he said. “We commend residents for making good use of the support provided.”

The district leadership, he added, will continue to closely monitor and support the maintenance of the terraces to ensure long-term sustainability and continued growth in agricultural output.