Rwanda deploys mobile dryers to tackle post-harvest losses

Rwanda has taken a proactive step in reducing post-harvest losses by deploying mobile grain dryers to address the challenges faced by farmers in preserving their harvests. The country's initiative aims to limit the exposure of harvested crops to poisons caused by mishandling during the post-harvest process. Dr. Charles Bucagu, Deputy Director-General at Rwanda Agricultural Board, spoke with CNBC Africa about the government's efforts to combat these losses. Currently, Rwanda experiences a 22% loss among farmers, with a slightly lower rate for beans at 12%. However, the goal is to significantly decrease these figures to around 5% by the year 2024. This ambitious target forms part of the government's strategic plan for agricultural transformation, designed to enhance productivity over a seven-year period. Central to this strategy is reducing post-harvest losses that predominantly occur during harvesting and processing by smallholder farmers. To achieve this goal, the government has made substantial investments in acquiring modern drying equipment and constructing drying shelters across the country. Modern drying machines play a crucial role in maintaining the required moisture content of maize crops, thereby preventing aflatoxin infestations and enhancing the marketability of the produce. These advancements ensure that crop harvests meet the quality standards demanded by the market, ultimately benefiting both farmers and consumers. The Food and Agriculture Organization estimates that Sub-Saharan Africa faces approximately 20% post-harvest losses, highlighting the significance of Rwanda's initiatives in mitigating these challenges. Climate change further exacerbates the situation, particularly during the harvest season when heavy rains impact the drying process. Dr. Bucagu emphasized the importance of strategically locating drying facilities closer to farmers and making drying equipment more accessible to facilitate proper harvesting and drying practices. In response to the climate change effects on post-harvest activities, the Rwandan government has allocated significant funds towards the construction of drying shelters and the procurement of dryers to support remote areas. By ensuring maize crops are dried to the optimal moisture content of 12-13%, the risk of aflatoxin infestations is minimized, and marketability is enhanced. These efforts not only reduce losses but also contribute to food security in Rwanda. Moreover, the government is actively promoting climate-resilient maize varieties that efficiently utilize available rainwater and adapt to changing climatic conditions. Through the dissemination of these resilient varieties and the introduction of various agriculture technologies, farmers are encouraged to adopt climate-smart practices to withstand the adverse impacts of climate change. Rwanda's comprehensive approach to combating post-harvest losses showcases a commitment to improving agricultural productivity and food security. By investing in modern drying technologies, infrastructure, and climate-resilient practices, the country is poised to significantly reduce losses and enhance the quality and marketability of its agricultural produce.