KIGALI - The Minister of Local government, James Musoni, has commended the agricultural sector for the achievements it has registered in the first farming season, saying that the prioritization of food crops and increased production of vegetables and fruits have improved the nation’s food security.

Speaking to journalists yesterday, Musoni said the government’s policy on food security and strategic agricultural plans had improved farmer’s production capacities, in a way that increases agricultural production and also sustains the environment.

"Farmers are asked to continue with their good practices, which the government will keep supporting, not just for maintaining food security, but also to supply both local and foreign markets,” Musoni said.

Musoni urged farmers to utilize the Savings and Credit Cooperative (SACCO), a government’s initiative which fosters their wellbeing through the provision of loans and savings accounts.

It was also revealed that over Rwf1.4 billion had been saved in various SACCO Unions.

"The government will continue to bring SACCO Unions closer to districts so that farmers can be empowered,” Musoni said.

In his remarks, the Minister of Environment and Lands, Stanislas Kamanzi, said that farmers were able to achieve the feat due to the extensive use of fertilizers and quality seeds which mature faster and are more resistant to bad weather conditions.

He revealed that government had resolved to strengthen government programs aimed at settling people in villages and improving their lives.

"People should be sensitized on locating affordable building materials and putting in place necessary infrastructure that is not available in the villages,” Kamanzi said.

He added that all the initiatives must go hand-in-hand with other government programs aimed at improving rural development, such as land development programs, working in cooperatives fighting soil erosion, among others.

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