RICA

Toward a Unified CA Agenda: Yesterday, RICA hosted staff and station managers from across the country for a Conservation Agriculture (CA) tour and training on campus.

The training created a valuable platform for strengthening synergy among research, extension and policy institutions. It also helped build participants’ capacity to support farmers in adopting CA to advance its implementation and scaling nationwide.

Yesterday, we hosted a group of Master Trainers from the Canadian Foodgrains Bank Rwanda for a Conservation Agriculture (CA) refresher session on campus. They explored the benefits of CA application firsthand and gained insights into our relay cropping system research, which focuses on maximizing the impact of cover crops on soil and plant health.

We were pleased to support the Canadian Foodgrains Bank’s efforts to educate communities on core CA practices. By sharing our expertise and knowledge with such stakeholders, we are contributing to a multi-stakeholder commitment to strengthen sustainable farming adoption.

Today, RICA Leadership paid a courtesy call to management. The two parties exchanged institutional experiences, reflected on student development approaches, and explored potential areas for future collaboration.

CELEBRATING TALENT - RICA congratulates the winners of yesterday’s campus students' photo exhibition: Cyuzuzo Nduwayo Arnaud, recognized for Best Photo and Habumuranga Tekla, awarded Best Poem.

We also commend the RICA Students Communications Club for organizing a such a meaningful platform that highlights the creative talents of our students.

Through artistic expression such as photography and poetry, students are telling stories about Conservation Agriculture, campus life in thoughtful and innovative ways. This exhibition reflects the spirit of creativity, excellence and innovation that RICA seeks to nurture within its community.

We also recognize the works of Keza Kami Brunella, Patrick Sinjyeniyo, Amizero Benitha Sabine, Uwiringiyimana John, Justine Ingabire and Rutwaza Singizwa Marie Agnes, whose contributions enriched this year’s exhibition. Which piece of art moved you the most? Please show our winners some love in the comments!

"If you look around in the farms, especially between planting seasons, you will see uncovered soil stretching across hillsides and plains. Farmers call it a ‘resting time’ for the land while scientists see it as a disaster slowly unfolding" - Exploring benefits of soil cover practices and cover crops to the most valuable asset: the soil. Link:

The Silent Crisis: What Happens When We Leave Soil Exposed. If you look around in the farms, especially between planting seasons, you will see uncovered soil stretching across hillsides and plains. Farmers call it a ‘resting time’ for the land while scientists see it as a disaster slowly unfolding.

No RICA student or graduate should ever feel like they’re navigating their journey alone. Today, we launched the Buddy Mentorship Program at RICA, an initiative that connects students and alumni through mentorship, shared experiences and mutual growth.

A big appreciation to the for championing this initiative designed to help build a stronger, more connected alumni community grounded in guidance, support and opportunity.

STRENGTHENING RURAL RESILIENCE THROUGH ALTERNATIVE LIVESTOCK HUSBANDRY: In partnership with the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), the RICA concluded today a 2-day capacity-building training on Alternative Livestock Husbandry for 60 livestock farmers, veterinarians and agriculture leaders from Kirehe District.

The training introduced participants to non-traditional livestock options, including poultry, rabbits, sheep, ducks, and pigs, which allow practical, low-cost and small-land solutions and yield high market value; thus supporting sustainable livestock production to strengthen household resilience and diversify income. Beyond technical knowledge, the training emphasized:

1) Improved household nutrition through increased protein sources
2) Diversified income streams for farmers
3) Enhanced resilience in smallholder farming systems
4) Empowerment of women and youth through accessible livestock enterprises

Grounded in field assessments conducted in Gasharu and Bukinanyana catchments (Kirehe District), the training reflects a data-driven approach to identifying locally suitable livestock opportunities and strengthening community livelihoods.

This collaboration between RICA and REMA highlights a shared commitment to building practical knowledge, and by focusing on species with rapid reproduction and lower production costs, we are ensuring that the livestock farmers are better equipped to navigate environmental and economic challenges.

At RICA, we believe the best way to learn is by doing. In our Farm Power and Machinery course, students master engine diagnostics, maintenance and full overhauls. Through this experiential learning model, students graduate with more than just textbook knowledge. They gain the practical confidence and expertise needed to transform the agricultural sector.

Telling the CA story at RICA has become a multilayered effort, with staff, faculty, and students alike unified in the narrative as we position RICA for CA leadership. It was especially satisfying to hear farmers call in during a live radio show, asking about CA and demonstrating genuine interest. Thank you, Kigali Today, for providing a platform to inspire farmers beyond the RICA campus today.
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MBerwjoQ_cU

We congratulate our RICA pioneer alumni on earning their Master’s degrees: Serge Tuyambaze from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln; Merci Uwimbabazi and from Kentucky State University; and Mizero Polycarpe from the University of Georgia.

Their achievements reflect both their academic excellence and the strength of the foundation built at RICA, speaking to the global relevance and impact of our graduates. We extend our warmest congratulations and look forward to the meaningful contributions they will continue to make in their professions and communities.