Promoting Sustainable Food Production in Kigali
The FAO Rwanda Office has launched its first urban farming demonstration project, reinforcing sustainable food production in Kigali. In partnership with Eza Neza, a youth-led agritech startup specializing in hydroponics and greenhouse technologies, the vertical farm features over 1,500 plants, including strawberries, lettuce, cauliflower, and cabbages.
This initiative aligns with Rwanda’s Green Rwanda program, spearheaded by the Ministry of Environment. “Urban agriculture complements Rwanda’s commitment to green technologies and sustainability,” said Coumba Sow, former FAO Representative in Rwanda. Inspired by young entrepreneurs, FAO plans to scale up this initiative across Kigali and other cities. “Given Rwanda’s reputation for embracing innovation, we are confident vertical farming will gain traction, especially among city dwellers with limited land space,” she added.
Revolutionizing Urban Agriculture
The FAO-supported farm utilizes hydroponic technology to grow fruits, vegetables, and herbs while consuming significantly less water and land than conventional farming methods. This system minimizes soil-borne diseases and enhances yields by up to ten times. “With hydroponics, tomato production can reach up to 50 kg per square meter, compared to just 5 kg using traditional soil farming,” explained Christian Irakoze, co-founder of Eza Neza.
The project serves as a showcase for vertical farming’s potential, with FAO and Eza Neza encouraging widespread adoption. “This method can be implemented in various spaces—including hotels, schools, hospitals, and homes—enabling urban areas to become self-sufficient in food production,” Irakoze added.
Enhancing Food Security and Sustainability
This initiative supports FAO’s Green Cities Initiative and City Region Food Systems Programme, which promote integrating agriculture into urban development plans. Urban farming can help mitigate food insecurity by providing a consistent supply of fresh, nutritious produce while reducing reliance on imported food and minimizing environmental impact.
By utilizing limited urban spaces efficiently, vertical farming can contribute to sustainable land use and create employment opportunities, particularly for young entrepreneurs. Additionally, these projects can strengthen community engagement and encourage knowledge-sharing in urban agriculture.
Scaling Up the Movement
Inspired by FAO’s success, other organizations—including UNDP Rwanda and the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources—are initiating similar urban farming projects to strengthen food systems.
For policymakers, urban planners, and agricultural specialists interested in implementing urban agriculture solutions, FAO’s Urban and Peri-urban Agriculture Sourcebook offers comprehensive guidelines, case studies, and best practices to support the expansion of sustainable farming in African cities.
