Rwandan Senate to Assess Government’s Efforts in Promoting Agricultural and Livestock Cooperatives

In a bid to evaluate the implementation of the government’s initiatives to promote agricultural and livestock farming cooperatives, the Rwandan Senate has announced a series of field visits across all districts and the city of Kigali.

Scheduled from January 9th to January 19th, 2024, this activity aims to oversee the progress made in promoting cooperatives and their impact on social welfare and national growth.

The Senate has commended the remarkable efforts made by the Government of Rwanda in promoting cooperatives, highlighting a significant increase in their numbers and financial capital.

Over the years, the number of cooperatives has skyrocketed from 919 in 2005 to an impressive 10,681 by 2023.

Additionally, the share capital of cooperatives has increased from Rwf 7,153,335,000 to a staggering Rwf 73,500,775,627.

Currently, there are 5,234,049 members actively involved in cooperatives across Rwanda.

During their visits, Senators plan to assess the progress of 60 cooperatives nationwide, with each district hosting two cooperatives engaged in agricultural activities and livestock farming.

The Senators will also inspect drying shelters and warehouses to evaluate post-harvest management. Furthermore, they will engage in discussions with cooperative representatives and district authorities to gain insights into their challenges and successes.

This initiative by the Senate builds upon previous activities undertaken to support the government’s measures in promoting cooperatives.

By conducting these field visits, the Senate aims to ensure that the government’s efforts are effectively implemented and contribute to the overall improvement of social welfare and national development.

The promotion of agricultural and livestock farming cooperatives plays a vital role in Rwanda’s economic growth, as they empower local communities and foster sustainable agricultural practices.

Through cooperative initiatives, members gain access to resources, training, and market opportunities, leading to increased productivity and income generation.

Moreover, cooperatives contribute to poverty reduction and food security, aligning with the government’s vision of a prosperous and self-sufficient Rwanda.

As the Senate embarks on these field visits, they carry the responsibility of providing valuable insights and recommendations to further enhance the success of cooperatives.

By closely monitoring the implementation of government measures, the Senate aims to foster an enabling environment for cooperatives to thrive and positively impact the lives of their members and the nation as a whole.