Agriculture plays an important role in Rwanda by providing food, jobs, and income for many families. However, farmers still face challenges in increasing production and reaching reliable markets.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, only about 40% of farmers used improved seeds during the 2024 farming season, while just 8% practiced irrigation. Rwanda's 2024 food security report also found that 17% of households were food insecure. These figures highlight the need to help farmers produce more, adapt to changing weather conditions, and access better market opportunities.

The transformation towards sustainable food systems – Kwihaza Project aims to address these challenges by supporting sustainable farming and fish production. Running from January 2023 to December 2027, the project focuses mainly on fish farming and horticulture, including onions, passion fruits, tomatoes and avocados. It works with smallholder farmers, cooperatives, producer groups, small and medium-sized businesses, and young entrepreneurs, with particular attention to women and young people.

The project helps farmers and businesses improve their skills, produce better-quality products, reduce losses after harvesting, and reach local and regional markets. It also supports businesses to grow, access finance and create jobs. 

By 2027, the project aims to train and coach over 2,300 farmers in good fish-farming practices and 2,400 farmers in good agricultural practices. It will also support the construction of Ministry of Agriculture silos with a total storage capacity of 10,000 metric tons.

The project is implemented by Enabel in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI), the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board, the National Agricultural Export Development Board, the Rwanda Inspectorate, Competition and Consumer Protection Authority, the Rwanda Standards Board, Access to Finance Rwanda, Appui au Développement Autonome, and UGAMA. Together, these partners provide technical support, strengthen standards and regulations, improve access to finance, and create better opportunities for farmers, cooperatives, and businesses to grow.

The project has a total budget of €17.5 million: €10 million from the European Union and €7.5 million from Luxembourg Cooperation. Through these efforts, Kwihaza aims to strengthen farmers’ and businesses’ capacity, improve food quality and availability, increase incomes, create decent jobs and support a more inclusive and sustainable food system in Rwanda.