EASTERN PROVINCE 

RWAMAGANA—The National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda has begun training data collectors throughout the country in a massive reorganisation of agricultural information management.

In Eastern Province, a one-week training started this week at Ecole des Sciences Infirimier in Rwamagana brought together 20 participants from each of the seven districts.

"The training aims at sensitizing the data collectors about agricultural statistical knowledge because they will be expected to compile information on agriculture-related issues,” said Don Chizelema the supervisor of the training.

Chizelema explained that the starting date for the exercise was scheduled for November 1 and is slated to continue throughout until July of 2008.

"Data to be collected is related to types of crops grown, types of fertilizers used, challenges and problems met by farmers,” said Chizelema. "Data concerning animal husbandry will be collected as well.”

According to Chizelema, the data will be collected based 6,000 and 10,000 respondants nationwide. It is on this sample that statistical indicators will be based. He said each data collector will be allocated 12-15 households for thorough collection.

The training was organized by National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal resources.  Others involved include the Ministry of Local Government and the World Food Program.

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