Rwanda Strengthens Commitment to Agricultural Innovation at 17th AGRI-SHOW

By Elias HAKIZIMANA.

Rwanda has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing agricultural and livestock technology to boost productivity, achieve food self-sufficiency, and meet both local and international market demands.

This announcement was made by Eric Rwigamba, the State Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, during the official opening of the 17th agricultural and livestock exhibition (AGRI-SHOW) in Mulindi, Gasabo District.

With the theme “Building Resilient and Sustainable Food Systems,” this year’s AGRI-SHOW emphasizes the importance of fortifying food security through innovative and sustainable practices.

Rwigamba emphasized the government’s dedication to supporting farmers and livestock keepers through its fifth Strategic Plan for the Agriculture Transformation phase (PSTA5), which focuses on integrating technology and innovative solutions to transform agricultural practices.

“The Government of Rwanda is committed to staying close to farmers and livestock keepers, focusing on technology and other innovative solutions that can transform agriculture and livestock practices in Rwanda. This is our responsibility, and it will continue,” Rwigamba stated.

Highlighting the critical role of agriculture and livestock in national development, Rwigamba noted, “Agriculture and livestock are life because their products are like medicine; a balanced diet prevents diseases. They are also a source of money because they are a pillar that helps in development, and in our country, everyone has the opportunity to improve themselves through agriculture and livestock.”

The AGRI-SHOW serves as a vital platform for both exhibitors and visitors to gain new insights and knowledge, particularly in utilizing technology to address the challenges posed by climate change.

“The exhibition is a great opportunity to celebrate the progress in agriculture and livestock, but it is also a time to use technology in this field, especially as the world faces significant challenges from climate change, increasing diseases, and a growing demand for agricultural and livestock products,” Rwigamba added.

He expressed gratitude to various partners for their contributions to professionalizing agriculture and accelerating the journey toward food self-sufficiency.

“Agriculture is the foundation of livelihood and a source of income. We thank our partners who help improve agriculture and livestock, making them more professional, and accelerating the journey towards food self-sufficiency. We also thank the farmers and livestock keepers who do their best to ensure people have food,” he said.

Representatives from the European Union and Belgium lauded Rwanda’s efforts in promoting agriculture and livestock. The EU representative praised the organization of the exhibition and its role in achieving food security and employment.

“We support projects in agriculture and livestock, as well as in the value chain. Professional agriculture transforms the lives of Rwandans and helps achieve food self-sufficiency,” he remarked.

The Belgian representative affirmed their continued support for agricultural projects, citing the high quality of the showcased items. “This exhibition showcases substantial things, which is why we will continue to support Rwanda to ensure that agriculture continues to advance and becomes a channel for welfare and development,” he stated.

Exhibitors also shared their success stories. Mutimanama Olive, a vegetable and fruit grower from Bugesera District, explained how the exhibition has enhanced her farming practices and improved her living standards.

“The agricultural and livestock exhibition has provided me with knowledge to advance my farming using technology, so I can now farm all seasons by irrigating. It has changed my life because I can support my family, pay for health insurance, contribute to EjoHeza, and more,” she said.

This year’s AGRI-SHOW features 479 exhibitors, including international participants from Nigeria, Uganda, Senegal, India, South Sudan, Somalia, Hungary, Kenya, and a Japanese company supported by JICA from Kenya.

The exhibition’s theme, “Building Resilient and Sustainable Food Systems,” reflects the global challenges and the need for innovative solutions in agriculture. It will run from August 1-9, 2024, showcasing the latest advancements in agricultural and livestock technology.

theinspirerpublications@gmail.com