SCORE Project comes to empower Cassava Farmers with New Opportunities
On January 22, 2025, the Ingabo Farmers’ Syndicate signed a grant agreement for the implementation of the SCORE Project, funded by the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program (GAFSP). This four-year project was formalized by the Country Director of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Mr. Habte-Selassie Dagmawi, as the supervising entity, and the Chairperson of the Ingabo Farmers’ Syndicate, Mrs. Cesarie Kantarama.
According to IFAD’s Country Director for the East and Southern Division, the funds will be utilized to improve cassava productivity in terms of both quality and quantity, enhance farmers’ capacities, address post-harvest challenges, and promote climate-smart agricultural practices in an inclusive manner. Mr. Habte underscored the project’s goal, stating, “The SCORE Project aims to strengthen smallholder farmers’ resilience to food and climate crises, thereby improving food security and livelihoods in rural areas. By investing in smallholder farmers, we enhance food security and rural resilience.”
The Ingabo Farmers’ Syndicate will implement the project, which is expected to benefit over 20,500 smallholder farmers. Of these beneficiaries, 46.4% are men, 53.6% are women, and 19% are young farmers, spanning 10 districts: Kamonyi, Muhanga, Ruhango, Nyanza, and Gisagara in the Southern Province; Rusizi and Nyamasheke in the Western Province; and Bugesera, Gatsibo, and Kayonza in the Eastern Province.
Speaking to the press, Mrs. Cesarie Kantarama, Chairperson of the Ingabo Farmers’ Syndicate, remarked, “This project strengthens our capacity to combat climate change, improve cassava production, and empower smallholder farmers with the skills needed for smart cassava farming. Previously, we produced 14 tons of cassava per hectare. With this new project, we expect to increase our yield to 50 tons per hectare.”
Mrs. Kantarama emphasized the role of innovative farming techniques, such as Zai Pit Technology, and training programs that focus on climate adaptation, soil health, and water conservation. Additionally, the project will introduce climate-resilient cassava seeds that can withstand the adverse impacts of climate change, thereby boosting farmers’ incomes.
She further affirmed, “Small-scale farmers are the backbone of Rwanda’s food system. This project will empower them with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive.”
The SCORE Project represents a significant step toward improving food security and fostering resilience among Rwanda’s smallholder cassava farmers.
