Koaruki Imanzi co-operative has donated hybrid cows worth Rwf5 million to some disadvantaged 20 residents of Cyili Village in Huye District, a move that will provide the beneficiaries a sustainable source of income to improve their livelihoods.

Judith Uwizeye, the Minister for Labour and Public Service, said the donation supports government initiatives, like the ‘One Cow per Poor Family’ programme, commonly known as Girinka, which are geared at reducing child malnutrition rates and increasing people’s household income.

While speaking at the hand over ceremony, Uwizeye urged farmers to embrace modern farming methods to increase agro-productivity and household income.

The first beneficiaries of the cows will pass on the off-springs of the cows to other vulnerable members in the community.

Nearly 200,000 families have so far benefited from Girinka programme. The government’s target is to provide dairy cows to 350,000 families by 2017.

Andrew Kagabo, the Girinka programme national co-coordinator, said giving poor households heifers has made it possible for disadvantaged people to consume milk and improve nutrition of their families.

Celestin Ndagijimana, a farmer and member of Koaruki Imanzi, said initiatives like Girinka are essential to enhance the welfare of Rwandans and support sustainable growth.

Second farming season launched

Meanwhile, the co-operative launched planting for season B, and are upbeat they will get better yields from major crops, like beans and maize.

The co-operative has so far developed 600 hectares of land using modern land management methods, which have helped them secure hillsides, and build a water retaining dam to benefit farmers.