Rwanda is aiming to boost the production of cassava, maize, and potatoes by introducing genetically engineered varieties that are resistant to diseases, pests, and drought. This initiative follows the launch of the country’s Agricultural Biotechnology Programme, led by the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) in collaboration with the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), a non-profit organization focused on ensuring food security and poverty reduction across Africa.
The five-year programme, backed by a $9.9 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, seeks to transform Rwanda’s agricultural sector by tackling key challenges in the production of these staple crops. These enhanced varieties are designed to increase resilience and yield, thereby improving food security and raising household incomes for Rwandan farmers.
Speaking on behalf of Dr. Ildephonse Musafiri, the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye, Director General of RAB, expressed gratitude for the foundation’s support. He reiterated Rwanda’s commitment to adopting innovative technologies to enhance crop yields, profitability, and climate resilience.
The programme, set to run from October 2024 to October 2029, is the result of collaboration between RAB and international partners such as AATF, Bayer, CIMMYT, the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, the International Potato Center, and Michigan State University. AATF will manage the overall project, while RAB will handle in-country activities, regulatory processes, and advocacy efforts.
The Rwanda Agricultural Biotechnology Programme is expected to have a transformative impact, helping farmers address ongoing issues related to pests, diseases, and climate change.
