On Friday, September 6th, 2024, a significant meeting took place at the Splendid Hotel in Muhanga District, Southern Province. The gathering brought together various cassava seed entrepreneurs, beneficiaries of the Virus-Resistant Cassava for Africa (VIRCA) project, with the main objective of preparing for Agricultural Season 2025A.
This project is implemented by the Mennonite Economic Development Authority (MEDA) in collaboration with the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), the Rwanda Inspectorate, Competition and Consumer Protection Authority (RICA), and the Ingabo Farmers’ Syndicate.
In his presentation on the professional multiplication of improved cassava seeds, expert Mr. Gervais Ngerero expressed his gratitude to all who contributed to organizing this meeting. He emphasized the importance of properly caring for cassava cuttings and roots to maximize income. He also urged participants to approach their work with professionalism, maintain the reputation of their businesses, uphold trust and dignity in their profession, and focus on meeting the needs of their customers while prioritizing collective benefits over individual interests.
The Chairperson of the Ingabo Farmers’ Syndicate, Mrs. Césarie Kantarama, thanked MEDA for being a reliable partner in boosting cassava productivity and for organizing this crucial meeting. She reminded the participants to serve as role models for other farmers, to be results-oriented, and to ensure thorough planning based on market availability. She also expressed her gratitude to the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) for supporting farmers, addressing their concerns, assisting with strategic planning, and serving as a strong coordinator, mentor, and instructor.
