The Rwanda Agriculture and Animals Resources Board (RAB) has identified the urgent need for over Rwf 5 billion to establish a watering system in Gishwati farms to address scarcity of water.

These farms, spread across Nyabihu, Ngororero, Rubavu, and Rutsiro districts, have long struggled with inadequate water supply, a challenge that impacts both livestock and the local community.

A 2020 study highlighted the necessity of this investment to ensure proper water distribution, particularly for modern cattle, which require large amounts of water daily. Farmers currently rely on tap water, which they must share with local residents, putting additional strain on the limited resource.

ALSO READ: Gishwati cattle farmers cautioned against poor milking hygiene amid bovine mastitis disease

Jean Baptiste Mutangana, a farmer from Rubavu District, emphasised the difficulties they face. "Our modern cows consume a lot of water, but the farms lack access to it.

We are forced to collect tap water, which we share with the community. This puts a burden on both us and the local population," he explained.

Mutangana called for the installation of dedicated water distribution systems in the farms, especially during the dry season when cows need even more water due to the dry forage they consume.

Martin Kayiranga, Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist for the Rwanda Dairy Development Project (RDDP) at RAB, said that the government, through RDDP Phase II, plans to provide short-term solutions such as water tanks, dam sheets, and boreholes for the farmers. These measures will help mitigate the situation while the government secures the necessary funds for a more comprehensive solution.

Ngororero District, which has the largest number of farms in the region, is currently prioritising water distribution to the local population. The district aims to increase access to clean water from 86% to 90%, after which it will focus on addressing water scarcity in the Gishwati farms in the project&039;s next phase.

ALSO READ: Over 90 km of roads under construction to ease transport for Gishwati farmers in Nyabihu

"We have assessed the water shortage in the farms, and while it’s not fully addressed in the current project, we are providing drinkers (ibibumbiro) at various water sources for cattle as a temporary measure,” said Ngororero District Mayor Christophe Nkusi.

"The project, now over 90% complete, will increase access to clean water for the population. After this, we plan to address water distribution in Gishwati farms in the next phase.”

He added, "We recognize the importance of clean water for livestock, particularly in milk production, and are committed to resolving this issue in the future.”

While Ngororero District continues its efforts to improve water availability, about 3% of the population still lacks access to safe water.

Meanwhile, the district is home to approximately 370 farms, housing between 12,000 and 13,000 cows.