From September 8th to 12th, 2025, the serene setting of Lucerna Hotel in Muhanga District in the Southern Province and Ntende Hotel in Gatsibo District, Eastern Province became a hub of learning, collaboration, and innovation. It was here that the training on Global Agricultural Practices brought together over 160 Farmer Field School (FFS) Facilitators from across the 10 Districts covered by the Sustainable Crops for Rural Empowerment (SCORE) Project. This vital initiative is funded by the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program (GAFSP) and supervised by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

The training aimed to deepen participants’ understanding on the role of Zai Pit Technology on boosting Cassava Productivity, climate-smart agriculture technique that align with global best practices. Over the five-day period, facilitators engaged in both theoretical sessions and practical demonstrations that covered topics such as soil health management, integrated pest control, water conservation strategies, and market-oriented farming approaches.

What made the training particularly impactful was its participatory approach. Facilitators shared field experiences, challenges, and success stories from their respective Districts, fostering peer learning and cross-regional collaboration. Experts and trainers guided discussions and offered insights into how these practices could be adapted to local contexts to improve productivity while preserving natural resources.

The atmosphere was not only educational but also inspiring. Many participants expressed renewed motivation and a sense of responsibility to take the knowledge gained back to their communities.

By the end of the week, participants departed Lucerna Hotel not just as trainees, but as ambassadors of change—ready to champion sustainable farming across the regions supported by the SCORE Project. The training reaffirmed the commitment of GAFSP and IFAD to empowering rural communities through knowledge, innovation, and sustainable development.