Agronomists in different parts of the Eastern Province are predicting high maize and rice production this season.

In separate interviews, on Monday, the agriculture officials said their projections are based on high quality seeds which were supplied to farmers, training and improved drainage system which has prevented flooding in rice fields.

Innocent Ukiziru, agriculture officer in charge of Rwamagana District said farmers across all districts in the province made significant effort towards increasing maize production.

"We achieved 91 per cent of our target last season, but we expect to go beyond this figure after harvest. The trend is unbelievable. Remember this is a crop farmers were hesitant to grow at first,” he said.

Ukiziru added that farmers had been trained in the operation and maintenance of the rice fields, with the objective of increasing their yields.

"We expect huge maize production this season...farmers have fully embraced modern agriculture methods of rice production. It has also contributed to improved livelihoods and lifestyles, it is motivating in itself,” he said.

Ukizuru noted that the farmers’ main constraints to increased maize productivity were addressed.

"We availed high quality seeds and fertilisers to all farmers in time this season.”

Gerald Muzungu, the mayor of Kirehe District, said rice farming has provided incomes and employment to many residents in the district and enhanced nutrition levels.

Being essentially an agro-based economy, however, Rwanda is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

Like other staple foods, therefore, rice production depends on rains which make it vulnerable.

"Our concern remains over dependence on rain...we are lucky that we have been having reliable rains lately, but in some seasons the story was different. Rain-fed agriculture is indeed a big challenge, particularly with the climate change,” Muzungu said.

Claudine Domitira, 46, a rice farmer, noted that rice provided enough income to farmers compared to other crops.

"Rice growing is demanding – being labour intensive activity – but the motivation lies in its ability to pay farmers.

There is significant evidence that lives are changing positively at the village level,” he said.

Mayor of Gatsibo District, Richard Gasana said this season, maize production is expected to more than double.

Plans are in place to mobilise farmers to sell their produce in farmers’ associations and at international markets, he said.

He said farmers’ proper use of fertilisers and reliable rainfall was key to the improved production.

"The district procured and availed agro processing equipments to farmers like maize mills, rice hurlers and an irrigation system.

‘‘We are using agriculture to increase household incomes and enable each household to earn enough money. Many rice and maize farmers have turned into millionaires,” he said.

Agriculture in Rwanda accounts for a third of Rwanda’s GDP and remains the main rural households’ source of income.

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