Carian Emeka is stationed at the Dutch embassy in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, for her job as Agricultural Attaché. Her field of activity includes the countries Rwanda and Uganda. “In this position I am the link between the Dutch government and those of Rwanda and Uganda. At the same time, I can bring Dutch agricultural companies in contact with local entrepreneurs.”
First impressions
“Rwanda is a beautiful and safe country with very friendly people. It is also a country that is continuously developing, construction sites are everywhere. Both Rwanda and Uganda have the development of the agrarian sector high on the government’s agenda. Agriculture is crucial for the food security of the region, and, naturally, also for employment.”
The state of affairs
“Rwanda and Uganda both have a favourable climate for agricultural production. Soil fertility, temperature and water supply are excellent in many regions. The production in sectors such as horticulture and potato cultivation could potentially increase sharply. A large part of the population works in cultivation, often in small companies. Due to the enormous population pressure, pressure on the soil is large. It is positive that cultivators are increasingly working together in cooperatives. It is necessary to initiate a transition to a commercial cultivation industry based on knowledge. That is also a top priority of the governments. I am convinced Dutch business can contribute to that.”
Practical example
“A number of Dutch companies are already present here on a relatively small scale. In cooperation with Greenport Holland and Dutch Horticultural Trade Board, the construction of a vegetable chain has been started. Dutch agricultural companies are also active in Uganda, from the seed sector, for example. The governments of these two countries view the Netherlands as an example for the development of their agrarian sector. They are very eager for collaboration.”
Opportunities
“We are currently researching which links of which production chains can benefit the most from the Dutch agrarian sector in terms of food security. In my view, the potato cultivation and horticultural sectors offer good starting points. But we will expand on that.”
Trade barriers?
“In cooperation with Dutch companies and interest groups, the negotiations with the Rwandan government have, by now, resulted in opening Rwanda for agrarian input. The rules governing this are workable. But, naturally, it could always be better. I see it as a challenge to open the borders even further – with help from the phytosanitary experts of the Ministry.”Source: Agroberichten Buitenland