Rwanda

Rwanda has a combination of irrigable land and large number of smallholder farmers. ILIMS investigates how irrigation and mechanization can be best adapted for sustainable scaling in the region.

Opportunities

Rwanda’s economy relies largely on subsistence agriculture. The agriculture sector employs over 70% of the population and contributes significantly to the Annual GDP growth, which was 8.2% in 2023. Rwanda lies at relatively high altitude with the lowest point on the Rusizi River being at 3,100 feet above sea level, and consequently has a temperate tropical climate. The mountainous and hilly topography, and the large numbers of smallholder farmers, shape the character of subsistence agriculture in Rwanda where small plots and intensive use of land predominate. Principle cash crops for export include tea and coffee, for which Rwanda is famous. Common crops include bananas, potatoes, beans, sweet potatoes, cassava, wheat and maize.

Challenges

Just over half (52%) of Rwandans get by on $2.15 per day or less, and average per capita gross domestic product (GDP) was $1,000 in 2023. Constraints on agricultural productivity include shortages of water, land, and essential agricultural inputs such as fertilizers and suitable seeds.

Contributing to Solutions

Capacity Needs Assessment

ILIMS is working with the University of Missouri and other partners in Rwanda to better understand capacity needs for the roll-out of improved irrigation and mechanization that is suited to the geography and institutions of the country.

Publications and Additional Resources

Project Partners

University of Missouri - (https://missouri.edu/)