Seven farmer co-operatives have received modern farming equipment, worth Rwf10.5 million, from KCB Bank Rwanda as part of the institution’s efforts to help boost the agriculture sector in the country. 

The beneficiary co-operatives are under the CHAI-IFC scheme that is supported by KCB and operate in the districts of Ngoma, Rwamagana, Gatsibo and Kirehe, and received assorted equipment, including maize shelling machines. 

According to George Odhiambo, the head of business development and client services KCB Rwanda, the support is geared at increasing productivity, as well as reducing post-harvest loses and boosting farmers household incomes.

"With the success of the Crop Intensification Programme increases in crop yields have resulted in unanticipated surpluses in key staple grains and cereals, including maize. However, post-harvest handling and storage techniques are still a challenge. Therefore, availing modern post-harvest facilities will help reduce losses, enhance quality and boost farmers’ income,” Odhiambo told The New Times.

He added that the beneficiaries have already been trained in post-harvest handling and storage techniques.

Over 10 per cent of the agricultural produce is lost along the value chain due to poor post-harvest handling, according to the agriculture ministry. However, the ministry and sector stakeholders has stepped up initiatives to reduce the losses.

About 1,300 farmers from 43 co-operatives have so far trained in maize and beans post-harvest handling countrywide to improve product quality and reduce losses along the value chain.

KCB Bank is currently supporting farmers and more than 60 cooperatives involved in agriculture and agribusiness. 

In 2013, the bank acquired a €6 million (about Rwf4.9 billion) loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB) to fund small-and-medium enterprises and micro-borrowers, including those in agribusiness

Janet Mukashema, a farmer in Kayonza District, said the equipment will help improve value-addition along value chain.