Rwanda looks to diversify ag exports with horticulture

There is currently a drive to diversify agriculture exports in Rwanda, and the National Agriculture Exports Board (NAEB) is already promoting horticulture, including the growing of fruits, to achieve this objective.

Betty Ingabire, a trade analyst and horticulture exporter, called for a clear and targeted export strategy that supports farmer and exporter needs, including availing them with credit facilities to help in diversifying exports.

Such a strategy should also promote value addition among farmers and exporters "because agro-processing is essential to boost value and enhance the quality of Rwanda's exports."

Eugenie Mukamana, a pineapple farmer in Kibungo District, said it is crucial for farmers to access new crop varieties and embrace modern farming technologies, like irrigation, to help improve Rwanda's exports. Rwanda's exports stood at 13.9 million kilogrammes for vegetables and fruits in the first two months of 2017, earning about $7.6 million in exports.

source: allafrica.com