Rwanda reported a significant performance in its tomato exports for the fiscal year 2023-2024, with a total of 13,700 tons of tomatoes exported, generating revenue of $13.8 million, as per the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB). Jean Bosco Mulindi, the Emerging Commodities Division Manager at NAEB, attributed this success to enhanced agricultural practices and investments in the horticulture sector including greenhouse farming, modern irrigation, and farmer cooperatives.
Mulindi detailed the government's efforts in developing irrigation systems, which expanded irrigated areas from 1,784 hectares in 2022-2023 to 2,552 hectares in the current year. This expansion improved extension services, aiding farmers in increasing productivity and the quality of exported tomatoes. He emphasized the importance of effective handling and storage for maintaining Rwanda's competitiveness in the global tomato market.
Rwanda primarily exports three tomato varieties – Rio Grande, RomaVF, and ANA F1 – to regional markets, with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and Kenya being the main destinations. Mulindi noted the potential for expanding into global markets with value-added products like tomato paste and sauce, thanks to Rwanda's logistical advantages in cross-border trade.
The growth in tomato exports reflects the rapid development of Rwanda's horticulture sector, supported by improved agricultural practices. Paul Rusingizandekwe, a tomato farmer, shared his success story, highlighting the transformative impact of tomato farming on his life. The sector has seen a significant increase in both the volume and value of tomato exports over the last three years, more than doubling from over 6,000 tons and $6.8 million to 13,700 tons and $13.7 million, respectively.
Source: The New Times