This project supports the Government of Rwanda by implementing its strategy to effect a gradual shift from prevailing subsistence agriculture to market-based farming. Until now, most pilot activities have been implemented in six watersheds. With the recent addition of five more watersheds, a total of 11 zones will eventually be covered. Priority is given to rural poor and vulnerable people, including households headed by women, as well as young people, landless people, orphans and families affected by HIV/AIDS and civil war, in selected sites.

The project has two main components:

• institutional strengthening of the agricultural sector through assistance to MINAGRI in achieving the objectives set for agricultural transformation under the PSTA, through coordination support, capacity-building for decentralized bodies and farmers’ organizations, strengthening of the management information system and communications system, and help in formulating the SWAp for agriculture launched at the end of 2008
• pilot interventions working to harness the full potential of agricultural and livestock production in project sites through specific activities, and to overcome the main constraints related to soil fertility and watershed protection, livestock improvement, rice production and research development

Experience gained through this project will help establish a sound basis for countrywide replication of successful developments.

Project website

Source: IFAD