Around a year ago the National Agricultural Export Board (NAEB) and sector stakeholders launched an initiative to boost horticulture production, quality and exports. Although many industry players say the platform is "a step in the right direction", more needs to be done to achieve growth targets.
The government seeks to increase horticulture exports tenfold, from $11 million in 2013 to $120 million in the next two years. The sector fetched $5.8 million during the last fiscal year, a decline from $6.6 million the previous year.
Chantal Uwajeneza, a horticulture specialist, said there must be a clear marketing strategy to ensure that what is produced is sold. This requires strong public-private sector partnerships, particularly investment in value addition initiatives.
"We are currently exporting fresh horticulture produce to Europe and other markets around the world, I believe we should start thinking about agro processing as a strategy to enhance the value of our exports," she said.
She added that there should be deliberate efforts to link local farmers with the manufacturers, arguing this will boost quality and farmers' earnings.
The agency plans to build a modern horticulture centre at Mulindi in Gasabo District to help small-scale farmers acquire skills to be able to process and package fresh fruits and vegetables.
Source: allafrica.com
