During a consultative meeting with local leaders from the Western Province, last week, the Minister of Agriculture emphasized the need to collectively work towards improving production, as we usher into the new farming season.

The Government recently announced that Rwf 28bn had been earmarked for fertilizers and seeds to help farmers produce high quality yields and record massive production.  As a result of this funding, farmers across the country will be able to access fertilizers at subsidized rates.

With the Government playing its part in supporting the farmers, both financially and through research and advancement of policies that support agriculture development, local leaders and farmers should play their part by working together to ensure that these initiatives are implemented appropriately and produce the desired results.

There is no doubt that the country’s economy depends on agriculture. When the farmers produce high yields, they do not only strengthen the economy, but their earnings also increase, subsequently improving their standards of living.

A viable agricultural sector translates into a win-win situation for all stakeholders. However, there are still reports of some residents attempting to sabotage initiatives or policies that foster agricultural production.

While this may present some setbacks, through continued sensitization, such challenges can be dealt with once and for all.

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