Rwanda has unveiled a state-of-the-art fertiliser blending factory in Bugesera. Launched on December 20, this visionary initiative, led by the Rwanda Fertiliser Company (RFC), promises to elevate crop yields by an astounding 40%. The strategic approach involves blending customised fertilisers tailored to specific soil and crop nutrient requirements, a practice set to revolutionize farming in the region.
Revolutionizing Crop Yields:
Located in the Bugesera Special Economic Zone, the fertiliser blending plant boasts a production capacity of 120 tonnes per hour, equivalent to an annual output of 100,000 tonnes. This exceeds Rwanda’s current annual demand of 85,000 tonnes, typically met through importation. Constructed at a cost of over $19.2 million, the plant is a joint venture between OCP Africa, Agaciro Development Fund, and Agro Processing Trust Corporation Ltd.
Visionary Leadership:
Mohamed Anouar Jamali, CEO of OCP Africa and Chairman of RFC, envisions a 40% increase in crop yields through a tailored formula that optimises soil health and nutrient balance. This visionary project is poised to have a profound impact not only on Rwanda’s agricultural landscape but throughout the entire region.
Economic Empowerment and Job Creation:
Anticipated to generate around 50 direct jobs, the plant aims to transfer expertise to enhance Rwanda’s skills in the fertiliser industry. As a result, it is expected to contribute to a 25% increase in farmers’ income, fostering economic empowerment and creating a ripple effect of positive change.
Addressing Challenges for Food Security:
The Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Ildephonse Musafiri, highlights the pivotal role of the fertiliser plant in overcoming challenges around fertiliser access and enhancing food security. With a vision to lower fertiliser prices, increase productivity, and eliminate hunger within two years, the plant is positioned as a key player in shaping Rwanda’s agricultural future.
Localized Production and Economic Autonomy:
Tesi Rusagara, CEO of Agaciro Development Fund, emphasizes that the facility will not only increase financial autonomy for farmers but also boost the agro-processing sector through improved production. The localised production is expected to reduce the import bill, contributing to the country’s economic stability and enhancing the export base.
Farmer Perspectives:
Godfrey Bagire, a farmer in Nyagatare District, expresses optimism about the factory’s impact on access to quality fertilisers. With the promise of tailored formulas addressing delays in fertiliser access, farmers like Bagire foresee a brighter and more prosperous future for Rwandan agriculture.
As Rwanda’s fertiliser blending plant becomes a beacon of agricultural transformation, it signals a promising era of increased yields, economic empowerment, and food security. The collaborative efforts of the Rwanda Fertiliser Company, OCP Africa, and other stakeholders showcase a commitment to sustainable farming practices that will not only shape Rwanda’s agricultural landscape but also serve as a model for the region’s prosperity.
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