Like many young people in Rwanda, Emmanuel Ndayishimiye from Nyagatare District once saw farming as merely "a way to pass time." That changed when he joined Kilimo Trust's Rural Youth Employment Support (R-YES) program, where he received hands-on training in modern agricultural techniques and entrepreneurship, specifically in vegetable production and processing.
"After the training, I had the zeal to change how I farmed," says Emmanuel. "I expanded my land from 30 to 80 acres and moved from subsistence to business-oriented farming."
Now specializing in passion fruits alongside cabbages and carrots, Emmanuel's farm has become a community learning hub. The impact extends beyond agriculture. His efforts are transforming lives around him.
"Working on his farm has changed my life," says Uwimana Marcel. "I can now pay for my family's health insurance and have built a house."
Emmanuel also mentors students from Rukomo TVET School, offering internships that help bridge the gap between theory and practice.
"It's helped me put theory into practice," says Charpine Umuhoza. "I now feel confident about pursuing agribusiness."
Looking ahead, he plans to begin processing his passion fruits — turning raw produce into value-added products like juice or jam.
From reluctant youth to skilled agripreneur and mentor, Emmanuel's story is a powerful example of what's possible when rural youth are empowered with the right tools, knowledge, and opportunities.