GATSIBO - Sixty rice farmers from Coproriz Ndende, Rice Cooperative in Rugarama sector, Gatsibo district, were on Friday trained on modern rice growing methods.

The three- day training was offered by the United States’ Africa Development Fund (ADF), which also donated protective gear to the farmers.

The cooperative has close to 900 members growing rice on 800 hectares of land in Rugarama swamp.  Speaking to The New Times in an interview, Jean de Due Sinzamura, the cooperative finance manager, said that the training was aimed at boosting rice production.

‘Apart from the training, the trainees also received protective gear, including jackets and boots that will prevent them from being exposed to the pestcide while spraying,” he said. 

"This will make their work easier.’
Jean Baptiste Ruhumuliza, one of the beneficiaries said that the training would assist him. 

‘I am optimistic that this training will help me increase my production. The protective gear we received will also prevent me from contracting skin diseases,’ he said.

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