The Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) said 100,000 hectares will be cultivated using soil conservation practices, while 246,000 hectares will be located in designated Food Basket Sites (FOBASI). Of the FOBASI area, 100,000 hectares will receive special attention.
The plans were announced on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, during an expanded meeting held in the Eastern Province to assess preparations for the 2027A agricultural season and discuss measures to strengthen food security.
The Acting Director General of RAB, Dr. Florence Uwamahoro, said soil conservation farming will be among the key priorities during the upcoming season.
“Soil conservation farming is one of the approaches we want to invest in during this agricultural season. We tested it through research to find ways of addressing the effects of climate change,” Dr. Uwamahoro said.
She explained that the approach allows farmers to protect the soil while preparing their fields for planting.
According to Dr. Uwamahoro, farmers clear the land, make planting holes where crops will be planted, apply manure or fertilizer, and continue with weeding and mulching to improve soil conditions and increase production.
She said RAB has already trained a significant number of people who will work with farmers and help them adopt the soil conservation practices.
Government targets higher production in FOBASI areas
Dr. Uwamahoro said RAB is also targeting a significant increase in production from FOBASI areas.
She explained that the institution aims to double the production recorded last year, which has contributed to the decision to increase the area under cultivation.
Eastern Province Governor Pudence Rubingisa said preparations for the 2027A season have already begun, with authorities placing particular emphasis on soil conservation and ensuring farmers have the necessary inputs before the rainy season.
He said farmers have started being encouraged to register through Smart Nkunganire so that they can access fertilisers and seeds in time.
The aim is to ensure that farmers are ready to plant as soon as adequate rainfall begins, rather than starting preparations only after the rains have arrived.
“We have also set a target of reaching eight tonnes per hectare in both irrigated and rain-fed areas, while for rice, we aim to reach seven tonnes per hectare,” Rubingisa said.
Maize, beans, rice and soybeans among priority crops
The crops expected to receive particular attention during the 2027A season include maize, beans, rice and soybeans.
Authorities have also urged people who own large areas of farmland but do not cultivate them to allow other residents to use the land for farming.
The measure is intended to increase the amount of land under cultivation and contribute to higher agricultural production.
The preparations for the 2027A season are part of Rwanda’s broader efforts to improve agricultural productivity, strengthen food security and help farmers adapt to the effects of climate change.
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