A mobile irrigation system is one farming tool that can enhance sustainable food production.

This was the message from the Minister of State in charge of Agriculture, Tony Nsanganira, at the closure of a week-long sensitisation campaign on modern farming in Rubona Sector, Rwamagana District, yesterday.

The minister encouraged farmers to adopt irrigation, use fertilisers and plant disease- and drought-resistant varieties to increase productivity.

Nsanganira said increased production that creates employment opportunities, would help boost the export sector and grow the economy.

He said Rwanda Agricultural Board was working with stakeholders, including local governments and co-operatives at the grassroots, to ensure improved output.

"Farmers not only need equipment, but information about variations in weather patterns, markets, soil fertility and texture, as well as topography to be able to carry out farming,” he said.

"Irrigation is one of the key priorities…it allows year-round crop production, which is what most farmers need to maximise production. For sustainable food supply, we need to emphasise extensive mechanised farming. The good thing is that there is a ready market for food in the country,” he noted.

Claude Ndindiriyimana, a participant, said many farmers would benefit from the programme, adding that those susceptible to harsh weather would improve production.

"With the help of the irrigation system and the improved farming practices that come with it, food production can increase by more than 50%. Many farmers were being discouraged by the unpredictable weather patterns, but this wont be a challenge with the new technology,” he said.

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