In Rwanda, potato farming has undergone a major transformation thanks to the introduction and expansion of certified seed potato multiplication programs. Spearheaded by public institutions and private sector players, this initiative is significantly improving productivity, farmer livelihoods, and national food security.
For many years, Rwandan farmers relied on low-quality seed potatoes, often recycled from previous harvests. These were prone to diseases and yielded poorly, keeping farmers in cycles of poverty and driving potato prices higher on the market.
Quality Seed Potatoes Bring Hope to Farmers
Today, institutions such as the Rwanda Agriculture Board (RAB) in collaboration with private investors are producing high-quality, laboratory-tested seed potatoes. These varieties are not only high-yielding but also disease-resistant and climate-resilient, offering farmers better chances at success.
Jean de Dieu Habimana, a farmer from Musanze District, testified:
We used to farm blindly, never knowing what to expect. But with these certified seeds, we see tangible results. Even on small plots, we now harvest more.
Consumers Benefit From Better Quality and Stable Prices
It’s not just the farmers who are reaping the benefits. Consumers now enjoy better-quality potatoes—with longer shelf life, improved taste, and consistent quality. This has boosted the potato trade, benefiting transporters, market vendors, and food service providers.
Marie Claire Mukarusagara, a food vendor in Kigali, noted:
Today’s potatoes are simply better. Customers keep coming back, and that helps us grow our businesses too.
At National Level: Agriculture as a Pillar of the Economy
At the macro level, the government highlights that this seed potato initiative has increased national potato yields by 30–40% compared to a decade ago. This has helped address food insecurity, especially in colder regions, and enhanced Rwanda’s capacity to export potatoes across East Africa.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources recently stated
Certified seed potato multiplication has been a game changer. It’s a clear demonstration of how science and grassroots needs can come together to offer long-term solutions.
The multiplication of certified seed potatoes in Rwanda is more than an agricultural program—it is a tool for economic empowerment, national development, and rural transformation. Continued investment in research, farmer training, and private sector engagement will be key to the sustainability of this success story.
