Rubavu Farmers Call for Tech Innovations to Boost Irish Potato Yield

Elias Hakizimana Jun 28, 2024Jun 28, 2024 0 Comments

By Elias Hakizimana.

In the attractive regions of Mudende and Busasamana in Rubavu District, Irish potato farmers are advocating for technological advancements to enhance their crop yield and storage capabilities.

Modeste Ntibitura, a dedicated farmer and volunteer, has been instrumental in training fellow farmers on effective seed management and timely agricultural practices, thanks to the initiative by IMBARAGA Farmers Organization to promote professional and productive agriculture through training.

“They train us on quality seed management, best agricultural practices, and how to cultivate on time. We also work with SACCOs and banks to prepare for the season,” Ntibitura explains.

His efforts have been pivotal in helping farmers plan both short and long-term agricultural strategies, particularly for Season A-2025.

Ntibitura highlights the importance of government subsidies and the need for technology to improve seed and crop storage.

“We are ready for Season B and do not have issues with fertilizers. However, we request development partners to help us enhance technology for long-term seed and crop storage. Training and field visits to learn from other successful farmers would be helpful,” he adds.

Uzziel Ntakirutimana, emphasizes the benefits of self-managed seed storage. He notes the challenges posed by climate change and poor-quality seeds purchased from stores, stressing the need for reliable seed storage technology.

“We need technology to ensure quality seeds are available on time in our own seed stores,” says Ntakirutimana.

Juvenal Musine, Program Manager at IMBARAGA Farmers Organization, supports the farmers’ call for innovation.

His organization promotes Irish potato farming through seed multiplication, market assurance, and connecting farmers with financial institutions. They also focus on soil restoration by encouraging the use of manure fertilizers.

“We encourage farmers to use manure fertilizers to address yield reduction and crop diseases. Using a large quantity of manure fertilizers and minimal modern fertilizers helps restore soil productivity. We have trained 90 farmers so far with funding from the African Farmers Federation,” Musine states.

IMBARAGA plans to collaborate with the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Board (RAB) to introduce technology for seed multiplication and storage, further supporting the farmers’ initiatives.