The plant, named Marecom Rice, has been established by two Rwandan investors along the Rwamagana–Kayonza tarmac road in Muhazi Sector.
Built on an 8,000-square-meter site, the factory is expected to process up to 60 tonnes of rice per day once fully operational.
Beyond processing capacity, the facility is projected to create at least 30 permanent jobs while working closely with rice farmers from Rwamagana, Ngoma, Gatsibo, and Kirehe districts.
Rwagahungu Eugène, the Managing Director of Marecom Rice and one of its investors, told IGIHE that construction began on September 17, 2025, with total investment costs estimated at Rwf 2 billion. The first phase, valued at Rwf 1.2 billion, is scheduled for completion in June this year.
“We have already completed the installation and testing of machinery. During this season, we have started purchasing farmers’ produce for trial runs to ensure the factory operates efficiently,” he said. “With a daily processing capacity of 60 tonnes, we are confident that there will be no surplus left unprocessed, both for farmers in Rwamagana and across the Eastern Province.”
Rwagahungu emphasized that the factory aims to address long-standing challenges where harvested rice would deteriorate due to delays in processing. He added that the company is committed to purchasing rice from farmers at fair prices, thereby encouraging increased production.
“Farmers used to travel long distances to sell their harvest. We are bringing the solution closer to them. If they increase production, we are ready to buy. We are also creating employment opportunities for them and their children. Additionally, we will help process part of their harvest for personal consumption so they can enjoy high-quality rice,” he noted.
Farmers have welcomed the development with optimism. Ngabonziza Augustin, who cultivates rice in Cyimpima marshland in Rwamagana District, expressed satisfaction, saying the factory’s proximity will ease access to reliable markets and improve their livelihoods.
“We are very happy because this factory is close to us. We will have consistent buyers and easier access to our produce. Previously, our rice was bought by traders who transported it to Huye. Now, having a nearby factory will encourage us to increase production. We only ask that they operate fairly and pay us well,” he said.
Another farmer, Gahiza Appolinaire, who works in Cyaruhogo marshland, described the factory as a major opportunity. He highlighted that by-products from rice processing, such as rice bran (locally known as sondori), will now be readily available nearby, supporting livestock farming and further improving incomes.
The Vice Mayor of Rwamagana District in charge of Economic Development, Kagabo Rwamunono Richard, also welcomed the project, describing it as a timely solution to challenges faced by local farmers.
“This factory provides an additional solution for rice production and processing. Our farmers previously had to sell their rice in the Southern Province after the existing local factory showed limitations. Often, harvested rice would stay too long on drying grounds and sometimes spoil. Now, they have a nearby facility that can quickly take and process their produce,” he said.
The factory is expected to start with a storage capacity of 2,500 tonnes, eventually expanding to accommodate up to 5,000 tonnes. Currently, Rwamagana District cultivates rice on more than 460 hectares, and the new plant is anticipated to significantly strengthen the value chain in the region.
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