On November 20th, a delegation of Women Farmer Leaders from various African countries, representing agricultural organizations under the Pan-African Farmers’ Organization (PAFO), visited the Ingabo Farmers’ Syndicate. The delegation was led by several prominent leaders, including Mrs. Césarie Kantarama, the Chairperson of the Ingabo Farmers’ Syndicate, who hosted the group.
Visit to Muhanga District Offices
The visit began at the Muhanga District offices, where the delegation was warmly welcomed by Mr. Eric Bizimana, the Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Development. Mr. Bizimana expressed his gratitude for the delegation’s choice to visit Muhanga District and, specifically, the Ingabo Farmers’ Syndicate. He commended the Syndicate for its vital role in promoting inclusive agricultural practices, fostering gender equality, and contributing significantly to the district’s agricultural development.
Visit to Ingabo Farmers’ Syndicate Headquarters
After the district office visit, the delegation proceeded to the Ingabo Farmers’ Syndicate Headquarters. There, they toured an exhibition showcasing various initiatives and activities supported by the Syndicate’s partners. The exhibits included handicrafts, pig farming, avocado oil production, chicken farming, and cassava processing.
Visit to IABM Cooperative
The delegation also visited the IABM Cooperative, located in the Makera marshland. The cooperative, which is predominantly managed and staffed by women, welcomed the visitors with great enthusiasm.
Key Messages from the Delegation
At each stop—Muhanga District offices, the Ingabo Farmers’ Syndicate Headquarters, and the IABM Cooperative—Mrs. Césarie Kantarama, Chairperson of the Ingabo Farmers’ Syndicate, addressed the delegation. She expressed her gratitude for their visit to Rwanda and the Ingabo Farmers’ Syndicate. She also acknowledged PAFO’s role in organizing the visit and promoting women’s leadership in agriculture.
Mrs. Kantarama emphasized the importance of maximizing available resources and opportunities to accelerate development. She called for strengthened collaboration between local and international organizations to further this mission, stating:
“Long live Africa, long live our development partners, long live Rwanda, and long live rural women.”
Remarks from PAFO Representative
Mr. Aimable Twagirayezu, representing PAFO, thanked the Ingabo Farmers’ Syndicate and its Chairperson for organizing the visit. He praised the Syndicate for its collaboration with both public and private institutions, its commitment to agricultural development, and its efforts to promote gender equality. He assured the group of PAFO’s ongoing support and pledged to foster stronger partnerships to enhance the agricultural sector.
The visit highlighted the importance of collaboration, gender inclusion, and innovation in advancing agriculture and rural development across Africa.
Top of Form
