Farmer Field Day Showcases Sustainable Solutions to Manage Potato Tuber Moth and White Grubs in Rwanda

MUSANZE, Rwanda – Farmers, agricultural extension officers and researchers gathered in Kinigi, Musanze District, on 20 July 2026 for a Farmer Field Day showcasing sustainable solutions to two major pests affecting potato production in Rwanda: potato tuber moth and white grubs.

The field day was organized by the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) in collaboration with the Institute of Plant Protection of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (IPP-CAAS) under the China-Rwanda Joint Laboratory for Crop Pest Sustainable Management Project.

The event provided participants with an opportunity to observe practical Integrated Pest Management (IPM) technologies being developed through the joint research initiative.

Among the solutions demonstrated were Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticidal strains and entomopathogenic nematodes, which offer environmentally friendly approaches to managing potato pests.

Farmers and agricultural experts gather in the field to learn and exchange practical knowledge on sustainable potato pest management in Kinigi, Musanze District.

The technologies are intended to help farmers reduce crop losses while minimizing reliance on synthetic pesticides, contributing to healthier crops, environmental protection and more sustainable potato production.

Speaking during the field day, Dr. Hategekimana Athanase, Crop Protection Program Coordinator at RAB, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with Chinese research institutions in developing science-based solutions to emerging crop pest challenges.

The Farmer Field Day also provided an opportunity for farmers to interact with researchers and extension officers, helping bridge the gap between agricultural research and practical farming.

The event concluded with a call for wider adoption of integrated pest management technologies and continued collaboration among researchers, extension services, farmers and development partners to sustainably manage potato pests and improve potato production across Rwanda.

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LIBOS NDAYISHIMIYE

Libos Ndayishimiye is a Rwandan journalist, reporter, and radio presenter who has been active in the media industry since 2024. He centers his work on community-driven storytelling, aiming to foster a well-informed society.

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