Rwamagana - Modern livestock farming has increased milk production and general livelihoods of residents of Rwamagana district, officials and farmers say.

While on a tour of interaction with successful farmers in the district, yesterday, an official of Send A Cow project an NGO Apophia Mukantabana, said many farmers were able to switch to modern cattle farming as a result of cross breeding.

"It is inspiring to see farmers registering better yields which will ultimately improve their livelihoods,” she said.

Send A Cow project provides vulnerable people in Rwanda with quality live stock breeds. It trains them in sustainable modern farming and environmental protection techniques.
Mukantabana, said the project places a special focus on social development work in Rwanda.

Laurent Munyankusi, another official of the project said that they encourage farmers to go beyond animal husbandry by embracing other areas of production.

"The success of farmers whom we have worked with is very clear.... such families are enjoying high milk yields and growing food crops, in an environmental friendly manner. We encourage sustainable development in our working sites,” he said.

Etienne Kabera, 50, a father of ten told The New Times that his life changed since he was enlisted as a project beneficiary.

He revealed that he sells 20 litres of milk everyday, and saves the bulk of sales proceeds, which he uses to purchase additional stock of cattle.

"When I look at my herd , it makes me happy. They are beautiful. They have changed my life. I have come from zero levels of earnings to saving well over Rwf400,000 per month.

The NGO operates in 8 districts of Rwanda.

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