Joint efforts to boost Rwanda's Poultry Sector: Empowering Youth and Women for Food Security and Economic Growth

In response to the urgent need to make Rwanda’s agrifood systems more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, the Government of Rwanda, with support from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), has identified the poultry sector as a pivotal area for boosting national food security and generating income for small-scale farmers, particularly youth and women. As part of this initiative, four poultry model farms have been established in Nyaruguru, Ruhango, and Nyanza districts, benefiting 41 dedicated youth and 186 youth and women.

"We were delighted to join MINAGRI, the governor of the Southern Province, and the mayor of Nyaruguru district to launch these FAO-supported poultry model farms for the youth," said Coumba Sow, FAO’s Country Representative to Rwanda. "We are supporting these young people in starting their own businesses. A successful business involves making profits, establishing market connections, and ensuring that their production is profitable for themselves, their families, and the country." 

The beneficiaries received 5,000 chickens with feed for two months. FAO experts have trained all beneficiaries in poultry farming, entrepreneurship, technology use, poultry products marketing, market linkage, budget development, business planning, and modern resources in poultry farming to maximize profits and achieve self-reliance. "Here in Nyaruguru, we are showcasing a successful example of what is possible," noted Ildephonse Musafiri, Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources. "We support young entrepreneurs, particularly those in poultry farming, by providing them with training and additional knowledge to help them become successful business owners."

Frederick Manirabona, a poultry farmer and team leader of the Abegerakwesimihigo Cooperative in the Cyahinda Sector, shared his inspiring experience: "FAO learned about our efforts and decided to support us by providing 500 chickens, renovating our housing, and offering sufficient training on effective chicken care. Out of 500 chickens, 489 lay eggs daily, allowing us to earn approximately Rwf60,000 per day, which covers our daily expenses. This success story is just one of many that demonstrate the potential of this initiative."

"In Nyaruguru, we are showcasing a successful example of what is possible," said Minister Ildephonse Musafiri. "We support young entrepreneurs, particularly those in poultry farming, by providing them with training and additional knowledge to help them become successful business owners. We have provided them with egg-laying chickens and renovated housing, and they are now reaping the rewards and earning money. This is a pilot phase, and if successful, we hope to expand this initiative nationwide, potentially including providing cows or pigs to promote agricultural pursuits further."

This effort aligns with the “Hand-in-Hand” initiative, aiming to improve food system capacities and reduce poverty by empowering youth and women to become successful entrepreneurs. Each modern farm is equipped with materials and support for sustainable business ventures, ensuring that the project benefits the immediate recipients and has a broader positive impact on the community and the country.