Rwamagana pushes timely planting and modern farming for higher yields

Farmers in Rwanda’s Eastern Rwamagana District have been urged to prepare their fields early and plant on time ahead of the 2027A agricultural season, as authorities seek to maximise land use and increase crop production.

The district has started preparations for the new farming season, bringing together farmers and other agriculture stakeholders to identify potential challenges and agree on measures to address them before the rains begin.

Farmers were encouraged to prepare their land and secure agricultural inputs in advance so they can start planting as soon as favourable rainfall conditions are established.

Umutoni Vestine, a farmer from Butamwa Cell in Gahengeri Sector, said she has already prepared land for maize cultivation and secured fertiliser.

“I have started preparing the land where I will grow maize, and I already have fertiliser. I am confident about the harvest because agricultural extension officers have taught us modern farming practices,” she said.

Mbereyimfura Jean Bosco, another farmer, said he has registered for the Nkunganire agricultural input support programme, prepared organic manure and begun preparing his land using soil-conservation practices.

“All that remains is to see how the weather conditions will develop and wait for the rains so that we can plant and eventually harvest. We hope production will increase, especially because Rwamagana is well positioned for agriculture,” he said.

Season A considered key to higher agricultural production

Rwamagana District Mayor Mbonyumuvunyi Radjab said Season A is particularly important because it normally benefits from longer-lasting rainfall, allowing farmers to grow crops that require more time in the field.

“We normally have three agricultural seasons. Season A is the first and most important because it is when we receive rainfall for a longer period. This is when we grow crops that take longer to mature, such as maize and soybeans, and when we expect higher production that can contribute significantly to feeding the population,” he said.

A well-prepared Season A, he added, provides a strong foundation for the subsequent B and C seasons.

The district is also pushing for the cultivation of all available arable land, including small plots around households.

“We urge farmers to plant on time and not delay. Secondly, every available piece of land should be cultivated, even if it is a small plot of five by five metres near the home. Whatever it produces can contribute to feeding the household,” Mbonyumuvunyi said.

He also called on farmers to adopt modern farming techniques, use recommended agricultural inputs and plant quality seeds to improve yields.

The mayor cautioned farmers against practices that damage the soil and increase the risk of erosion, urging them instead to embrace soil-conservation measures.

36,511 hectares targeted

Rwamagana District plans to cultivate 36,511 hectares during the 2027A agricultural season.

The main crops targeted include maize, beans, soybeans, cassava and rice.

Authorities say timely land preparation, efficient use of available farmland, quality inputs and modern farming practices will be critical to increasing productivity and strengthening food security in the district.