NYAGATARE – The Agricultural Research Institute (ISAR-Nyagatare), this week donated 12 cows to Gakirage farmers’ cooperative in Nyagatare sector.

The animals were handed over by the ISAR Director General, Dr. Daphrose Gahakwa.

Speaking to residents, Dr. Gahakwa said that the research institute was established for the purpose of benefiting Rwandan farmers and urged residents to take advantage of the institute’s capabilities in the field of agricultural research, to improve their livelihoods.

"This institute has carried out a lot of research and it is still ongoing. However, whatever we are doing is for your benefit. ISAR chose to carry out some of its research at Gakirage watershed so as to teach and guide you on how to apply new modern farming methods,” she said.

Dr. Gahakwa advised Nyagatare farmers to properly utilise their farmland which, she said, is the main source of their livelihoods.

"Without land, no farming can be carried out,” she said.
The Nyagatare vice mayor in charge of economic affairs, Enock Byabashaija, advised the beneficiaries to look after the cattle well, including vaccinating them against diseases.

According to Augustin Musoni, the head of ISAR-Nyagatare, the institute has been facilitating farmers in boosting their production.

"Our activities promoting modern farming have helped many rural farmers in the district to improve their production,” he said.

Claudine Nyiramana, one of the beneficiaries thanked ISAR for the support and vowed to pass on the calves to other needy residents in the area.

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