Rwanda steps up efforts to curb post-harvest losses in maize value chain
RWANDA – Rwandan agricultural officials are intensifying efforts to combat post-harvest losses in the country’s maize sector, focusing on enhancing storage and drying facilities while fostering stronger market linkages for farmers.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Rwanda produces over 500,000 metric tons of maize annually. Nyagatare District leads production with 132,000 metric tons recorded this year. Despite these impressive figures, inadequate storage facilities have left farmers concerned about potential crop spoilage.
Last month, farmers in Nyagatare shared their challenges. Many feared that significant portions of their harvests would perish due to limited infrastructure for proper drying and storage.
Gilbert Rwagange, Station Manager for the Rwanda Agriculture Board (RAB) in Ngoma District, emphasized the need to address these gaps as the country prepares for the 2025 Season A maize harvest, which spans September to February.
“We have identified high-production areas and mobilized resources to support harvesting and drying processes,” Rwagange said.
“While we have 52 mobile dryers countrywide, including 24 managed by RAB, the infrastructure remains insufficient. These mobile dryers, each capable of drying up to 30 tons daily, are critical for ensuring maize is market-ready. To supplement these, we are working with farmers to construct temporary drying shelters.”
Farmers are encouraged to invest in low-cost solutions like tarpaulin-covered drying areas, with partial material support from authorities. Training programs are also underway, equipping farmers with skills and tools to ensure smooth harvests and minimal losses.
In Gatsibo District, Vision Storage Facility, a women-led agricultural enterprise, is transforming agriculture by providing advanced drying and storage systems.
The facility, located in Kiramuruzi Sector, has supported over 50 cooperatives and processed 9,000 tons of maize last season without losses due to spoilage.
“Our systems ensure that maize is properly dried and stored, safeguarding its quality and market value,” said Emmanuel Twahirwa, Manager of Vision Storage Facility.
Stakeholders, including the Ministry of Trade and RAB, are strengthening connections between farmers, cooperatives, and buyers. Aggregators—individuals who collect maize from farmers for distribution—also play a pivotal role in stabilizing the market.
Twahirwa noted, “We bridge the gap between farmers and reliable buyers, ensuring transactions align with government-set prices. This approach promotes transparency and trust, protecting farmers from exploitation.”
Jacques Muzungu, a cooperative member in Ngoma District, highlighted the impact of market linkages: “Previously, middlemen offered us unfair prices. Now, with direct connections to buyers, we receive fair compensation, ensuring our efforts are rewarded.”
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