From the 3rd to the 4th April 2025, a significant milestone in the journey of the KungaBu project was marked through a two-day Steering Committee session. Held across two venues—Five to Five Hotel in Remera for day one and the project sites in Butaro Sector, Burera District, for day two—the meeting underscored the project’s commitment to boosting food production and improving livelihoods in Burera District. Chaired by Mr. Jean Baptiste Nshimyimana, the Vice Mayor in Charge of Economic Affairs in Burera District, this was only the second of its kind but was notably impactful.
Day 1: Progress and Strategic Discussions
The first day commenced at 9:30 am at the Five to Five Hotel with opening speeches that set the tone for a productive day. Attendees included a diverse group of stakeholders such as district officials, the National Coordinator of ARECO-RWANDA NZIZA, representatives from the EU technical support team, and firms responsible for feasibility studies.
The agenda was both ambitious and comprehensive:
- Approval of the minutes of the previous meeting (June 4, 2024).
- Evaluation of the project’s progress.
- Endorsement of feasibility studies concerning (i) a solar-powered irrigation scheme in Butaro, (ii) the construction of three maize drying facilities and an Irish potato storing facility, and (iii) compost preparation and demonstration sites.
PowerPoint presentations and engaging discussion sessions created a platform for critical evaluation and decision-making. By the end of the day, the participants had achieved key approvals and laid the groundwork for advancing KungaBu’s mission.
Day 2: Field Visits in Butaro Sector
The second day shifted from boardroom deliberations to on-the-ground exploration. Starting at 12 pm, the steering committee toured project sites in the Butaro Sector. A key highlight was visiting the water sources planned for the solar-powered irrigation scheme—a potential game-changer for agricultural productivity in the region.
The field tour also showcased the tangible benefits of KungaBu’s interventions. In addition to water sources, the committee visited recently terraced farm lands, emphasizing the project’s efforts to improve soil management and boost crop yields. In Biyove villages, households involved in livestock programs demonstrated the success of these initiatives. Further adding a touch of community spirit, 11 needy families in neighboring Nyanamo village received small livestock, symbolizing how past efforts are yielding positive social impacts.
Day two concluded at 5 pm with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment among all stakeholders, marking the successful end of the meeting.
About the KungaBu Project
Financed by the EU Rwanda Delegation and implemented jointly by Burera District and ARECO-RWANDA NZIZA, KungaBu (KUNGAHARA Burera) is a three-year project with a transformative mission: boosting food production in Kamiranzovu marshland and enhancing livelihoods for local communities.
This two-day event reinforced the importance of collaboration and strategic planning in achieving this mission. With renewed momentum, the KungaBu project is poised to continue empowering Burera’s communities toward a brighter and more sustainable future.
