The modernization of agriculture, through the development of marshlands, has allowed the population of Nyaruguru district to increase maize production. This has helped to eradicate famine. Famine was once chronic in this acidic region.
The testimonies come from farmers in the Rusenge sector. They exploit the Agatobwe swamp located between the Rusenge and Ngera sectors. Currently, they are harvesting maize that will be grown in October 2021.
Jacqueline Mukabera of Akabacuzi village is proud of the production recorded this year thanks to the sensitization initiated by the district authorities.
“Today, we see the results of good governance. Personally, for this season alone, I have a production of more than 800 kg of corn. That is more than 200,000 Frw. It is the first time that I have such an agricultural production in one time. First of all, I will pay for my health insurance,” says Mukabera, smiling.
“Last year, Vice Mayor Janvier Gashema himself came here. He informed us that this swamp was going to be developed for our benefit. His presence motivated us,” says Mukabera.
Niyomugabo Théogène lives on Kavumu village. He is one of the farmers exploiting the marshland that will be developed in 2021. “Today, we cultivate three seasons a year by alternating crops. The current corn harvest is more than satisfactory. After the corn, we will put carrots. No more famine in our area”” says Niyomugabo.
“Before, this was a dirty, almost virgin swamp. On one side there was bush and cattle pasture. On the other side, small individual plots of land were exploited in disorder. There were sweet potatoes, beans and sorghum all in one plot. They only grew one season a year,” Niyomugabo explains.
Nduwayezu Marie Chantal says that the farming techniques she learned from the agronomists have already allowed her to increase agricultural production in her own fields. These are located on the hillsides.
The vice mayor of Nyaruguru district in charge of Economic Affairs and Development, Janvier Gashema, says that the modernization of agriculture has allowed the population to take a step towards food self-sufficiency.
“This is the result of a policy of good governance initiated by the President of the Republic. The once chronic famine in Nyaruguru district is a thing of the past,” said Vice Mayor Gashema.
“We thank the President of the Republic who has restored the climate of confidence and peace. This attracts good partners who invest in our district with enthusiasm,” he said.
According to the agronomist of Rusenge sector, Silvère Mukeshimana, the Agatobwe swamp occupies a total area of 74.5 hectares. It is operated by two cooperatives with 2,634 members, 984 of whom are women. The development work cost 800 million Frw, financed by South Korea through the World Food Program.
Since 2017, Nyaruguru District with the support of its partners has developed 702 hectares of marshland. Another 212 will be developed over the next 5 years.
Domice Gasarabwe & Gerard Rugambwa
