NGOMA - Local leaders have said that the district is to increase pineapple production, as a cash crop. The Mayor, François Niyotwagira, said last Saturday, that the district will increase its acreage for pineapple production.

He said this during community work(Umuganda) in conjuction with local NGOs. 

The community work was carried out in Jarama and Sake sectors, to prepare land where the pineapple suckers will be planted.

Pineapples will be grown on over 100 hectares of land, local leaders said.

The World Food Programme (WFP) country representative, Abdulaye Balde, commended Rwanda on the community work, saying the work done if put in monetary terms, is actually immense.

"Umuganda is actually unique for Rwanda. Some African countries have almost similar activities, but they are not as formalised as they are in Rwanda,” he said.

"The pineapple land we prepared today (Saturday), tells volumes of what I am saying.”

Addressing residents, at Kanigo Bridge, Niyotwagira commended WFP staff for joining residents in community work, saying it is a great sign of love and care for the people.

Philippe Nyamihana, the Executive Secretary, of Jarama Sector said experts have showed that the area has suitable land for pineapple production.

"We thus have to help peasants to produce as much as they can for their consumption and sale in order to end poverty in the community,” he said.

Residents said the gesture by WFP employees working with them was an inspiration to people to work even harder.

"It is not only the physical support we have got from these men and women of WFP, it is also the moral support,” said Jean Claude Harerimana. 

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