Livestock farmers in Eastern Province, whose pasture has been affected by severe drought, breathed a sigh of relief on November 13, when the Rwanda Defence Force opened sections of the Gabiro Military Camp in Gatsibo District for forage collection.

This initiative is expected to provide critical support to livestock farmers across Gatsibo, Kayonza, and Nyagatare districts, where pasture have been affected by prolonged drought.

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On the first day, more than 200 farmers from Gatsibo collected forage from the camp. They lined up to collect feed and carried their loads on motorcycles, bicycles, or on their heads.

"This initiative has come at a critical moment,” said Flora Kayitesi, 39, a resident of Nyamwiza village, who practises her farming in the proximity of the camp.

Kayitesi, who relies on milk from a cow she received through the Girinka programme, said the drought had shrunk forage supplies, threatening milk yields.

"Access to the military camp for forage collection is a lifeline for us. Now, it’s up to us to keep our livestock healthy in the long run,” she said.

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In Gatsibo alone, five sectors will benefit significantly. Two of the sectors, Rwimbogo and Kabarore, have over 35,000 cows.

Across the region, approximately 80,000 farmers stand to benefit from the access to forage from the camp, which will be open daily from 8am to 6pm.

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Gatsibo District Mayor Richard Gasana, emphasized the pressing need for forage that led to this initiative.

"Livestock farmers have frequently requested for access to the Gabiro Military Camp for forage. We had prolonged drought unexpectedly and this affected livestock pasture," Gasana said.

This initiative could help increase milk production and consumption but also strengthen dairy farmers&039; livelihoods.”

The number of farmers coming to collect forage is expected to grow in the coming days, with plans to introduce baler machines to help them stockpile forage faster.

Rwanda’s largest dairy region, Eastern Province has about 1.5 million cattle, with a high concentration of improved dairy breeds.

"This initiative will make forage collection much cheaper, allowing me to redirect funds toward other farm improvements,” said Emmanuel Ruzindana, a farmer from Gahini Sector in Kayonza District. "I’m confident that it will lead to healthier cows and higher milk yields, making a real difference in our lives.”

Ruzindana said he had relied on crop residues as livestock feed, but the ongoing drought has disrupted agriculture, and affected this source of feed.

"Access to fresh forage at Gabiro Camp feels like an opportunity not only to maintain my cattle but to support my farming practices. I am thankful to RDF and the government for this move. We pledge to make the best out of the opportunity.”

Mayor Gasana urged farmers to abide by the set regulations about the practice in order to prevent any possible threat including foot and mouth disease.

"We urge the farmers to use designated entry and exit points to prevent the spread of any potential diseases," Gasana said.

"By following these guidelines, we can ensure the overall health and well-being of our livestock population. Proper care and attention will lead to the success of the forage collection and help achieve our milk production goals."