Rwanda scales up post-harvest systems with 48 storage units to cut crop losses

By Elias HAKIZIMANA.

Rwanda has deployed 48 modern post-harvest storage facilities with the capacity to preserve up to 5,000 tonnes of agricultural produce per day, in a renewed push to tackle crop losses and strengthen food systems.

Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye, revealed the development while briefing the Parliamentary Committee on Governance, Gender and Social Affairs on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. The session reviewed the 2024/2025 report of the Rwanda Governance Board and the 2025/2026 action plan.

The minister said the government is upgrading post-harvest handling by phasing out outdated systems and adopting modern, technology-driven solutions.

He acknowledged that some earlier installations—particularly solar-powered systems—were deployed without sufficient technical assessment, resulting in operational gaps. A nationwide audit has since identified more than 48 functional facilities with significant storage capacity.

Ndabamenye said the government is now repositioning the units to areas with high agricultural output to maximize efficiency and impact.

Priority is being given to cereals and export-oriented crops, with a focus on maintaining quality standards and improving market competitiveness.

The ministry is also working in partnership with the Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA) to ensure proper use and maintenance of the facilities. Graduates from technical training institutions are being engaged to repair equipment and support farmers in adopting best practices.

The minister indicated that pilot operations for the 48 facilities are expected to be completed within the year, ahead of full-scale deployment.

Value addition drive gains pace

Beyond storage, Rwanda is intensifying efforts to boost value addition across agricultural value chains, including expanding production of avocado oil and other high-value products.

Ndabamenye emphasized the need for stronger coordination between regulatory and trade institutions to ensure products meet quality standards and reach markets in optimal condition.

The developments align with broader government targets outlined by Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, who in 2025 projected a 50 percent increase in agricultural output under the 2024–2029 strategy.

The plan prioritizes increased use of fertilizers and improved seeds, expansion of irrigation from 71,000 hectares to over 130,000 hectares, and scaling up terracing from 142,000 hectares to more than 167,000 hectares.

It also places emphasis on climate-resilient agriculture, expanded irrigation systems, and improved land use management.

Post-harvest losses—estimated at 13.8 percent in 2023—are targeted to drop below 5 percent, while agricultural financing is expected to rise to 10 percent, signaling stronger investment in the sector.