Rwanda announces public-private partnership to benefit over 500,000 farm households
The Rwandan Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources has partnered with the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) to enhance food security and livelihoods for over 500,000 farm households. The Rwanda Agricultural Biotechnology Programme aims to develop high-yielding, pest- and disease-resistant varieties of cassava, maize, and potatoes. This initiative involves multiple stakeholders, including the International Potato Center and Michigan State University, focusing on integrating research and extension services to boost productivity and resilience among farmers.
Rwanda Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) have announced a public-private partnership to benefit over 500,000 farm households in Rwanda by developing high-yielding pest- and disease-resistant cassava, maize, and potatoes.
The partnership, known as the Rwanda Agricultural Biotechnology Programme targeted towards improving the productivity and resilience of three staple crops namely cassava, maize, and potato which are critical to the food security and livelihood of farming families.
The announcement was made following a two-day launch and planning meeting that brought together the Programme’s partners.
This initiative will be coordinated by AATF and the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) and include the International Potato Center (CIP), Michigan State University (MSU), Bayer Company, the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre (CIMMYT) and the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center in St. Louis, MO.
Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye, RAB Director General who spoke on behalf of the Minister for Agriculture and Animal Resources, said a partnership approach is key to the project’s success as it will ensure key stakeholders cooperate effectively to address food insecurity sustainably.
“By integrating research and extension services, we can equip farmers with the necessary tools and knowledge to boost productivity and resilience,” he said.
Source Link : https://tribuneonlineng.com/rwanda-announces-public-private-partnership-to-benefit-over-500000-farm-households/
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