In a significant step towards strengthening Rwanda’s dairy sector, Kilimo Trust Rwanda, in collaboration with RAB-SPIU and Nyagatare District, has launched the first phase of farmer support under the Rwanda Dairy Development Project Phase II (RDDP II).
The milestone was marked during a contract signing event held on 11th June 2026 in Nyagatare District, where livestock farmers signed grant agreements to access support for key farm equipment. The intervention aims to enhance productivity, build resilience, and promote inclusive growth among dairy farmers.
The beneficiaries will receive support to acquire chopper machines for improved fodder preparation and dam sheets to enhance water storage, particularly during dry seasons when water availability remains a major challenge for livestock farmers.
Speaking at the event, the Vice Mayor of Nyagatare District in charge of Social Affairs, Juliet Murekatete, highlighted the importance of the initiative in addressing critical challenges affecting dairy farmers.
“In Nyagatare District, water scarcity remains a major challenge for livestock farmers during the dry season. This project support will help us address this challenge to maintain productivity,” she said.
For farmers, the support represents a practical solution to improving animal nutrition and increasing milk production. Peter Twahirwa, a dairy farmer from Karangazi Sector, who applied for a chopper machine, said the equipment will help farmers make better use of available fodder.
“The chopper machine will help us prepare and utilize fodder more efficiently. When cows receive enough quality feed and water, they remain healthy and productive,” he said.
Through RDDP II, Kilimo Trust and partners continue to support Rwanda’s agricultural transformation agenda by improving access to technologies that strengthen dairy value chains and improve farmers’ livelihoods.
Andrew Gashayija, Country Team Leader for Kilimo Trust Rwanda, encouraged more farmers to participate in the upcoming phase of the programme.
“We are working with the Ministry of Agriculture and RAB-SPIU to ensure a second call for application is out soon. This will give opportunity to the ones that missed the first phase to apply for support,” he said.
In Nyagatare District, 144 farmers applied for chopper machines, 51 applied for dam sheets, while 58 applied for both interventions. The total investment is valued at approximately Rwf516 million, including more than Rwf311 million in government subsidies, while farmers will contribute close to Rwf200 million towards the investment.
The support marks another step towards building a more productive, climate-resilient, and competitive dairy sector in Rwanda.