Kelly Siobhan, the Food and Agriculture organisation agribusiness specialist based in Italy, says sector policies should be reviewed to cater for the interests of the small-and-medium entrepreneurs and farmers.

Siobhan was in Kigali last week to attend the launch of a new project by the government and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) that seeks to increase the sector’s output and link farmers to markets. He talked to Business Times Peterson Tumwebaze:

Briefly explain what this project is all about?

The project is aimed at strengthening linkages between small actors and buyers in the roots and tubers sector across the African continent.

The overall objective is to try and improve the livelihoods of small producers engaged in the roots and tubers value chains in selected African economies, of which Rwanda is among.

We intended to realise this objective through the promotion of linkages between buyers and producers of root and tuber crops like cassava, yams and sweet potatoes.

In Rwanda, we are mostly focusing on supporting the private sector so that it can play a central role in agro-production as it is enshrined in Vision 2020. 

Through a 2013-17 strategic plan aimed at transforming agriculture, we also promote value addition among potato farmers and dealers, which will help increase household income.

Why roots and tubers?

These are traditionally-important food security crops accounting for 20 per cent of daily calories, but also play a critical role in improving farmers’ income. The project seeks to promote commercialisation of these crops, and staples in general, recognised as a strategy for poverty reduction.

What is your assessment of Rwanda’s agriculture sector?

Rwanda is on the right track. What is remaining, however, is for everyone to work together towards the realisation of the country’s vision for the sector.

Most importantly, is for the country to address challenges faced by both the demand and supply sides to ensure holistic growth of the sector.

Understanding the needs and the capacities on the demand side will make it easy for the stakeholders to deal with supply more effectively.

You have been talking about creating strong linkages between small scale farmers and buyers, how should Rwanda respond?

It should strengthen the bargaining power of SMEs to make them more competitive in local, regional and international markets.

This will build their capacity and make them more competitive. Being able to establish more inclusive and efficient agricultural and food systems at local, national and international levels is also essential to boost Rwanda’s agro-productivity.