This week, the spotlight was on innovative solutions to one of Rwanda’s most pressing challenges: nutrition security. ARECO-RWANDA NZIZA was proud to participate in the two-day National Workshop on Innovative Solutions for Nutrition Security in Rwanda, held from March 12-13, 2026, at the Nobleza Hotel in Kicukiro. The two-day event brought together partners involved in projects supported under the European Union-funded KUNGAHARA Programme, alongside government institutions, development partners, and implementing organizations.
The workshop aimed to highlight innovative approaches that can help address malnutrition and stunting in Rwanda while strengthening collaboration among partners implementing nutrition-sensitive initiatives across the country. The event began with an exhibition tour where partners showcased a wide range of agricultural innovations and products. These included fresh agricultural produce, processed post-harvest foods, and other solutions designed to improve food availability, dietary diversity, and value addition. Through these exhibitions and discussions, participants explored practical ways to enhance nutrition outcomes, particularly for vulnerable communities affected by food insecurity. The workshop also provided a platform for partners to share experiences, lessons learned, and best practices from projects implemented under the KUNGAHARA Programme, which currently supports up to 14 projects in different districts across Rwanda.
ARECO-RWANDA NZIZA attended the workshop as a key implementing partner of the KUNGAHARA Burera (KungaBu) project, formally titled “Increasing Food Production and Livelihood Improvement in the Kamiranzovu Marshland Area, Burera District.” Launched in February 2024, the project is a three-year initiative funded by the European Union under the KUNGAHARA Programme and implemented jointly by ARECO-RWANDA NZIZA and the Burera District. The project focuses on addressing food insecurity, malnutrition, and poverty in the Kamiranzovu Marshland located in Butaro Sector within Burera District in Northern Rwanda. By increasing agricultural production in the marshland area, improving food security and nutrition among local households, and strengthening livelihoods for farming communities, the initiative promotes sustainable agricultural practices and the development of infrastructure that supports long-term socio-economic growth. Through these efforts, the project contributes to lasting solutions aimed at reducing hunger, improving nutrition, and enhancing economic resilience in the community.
The KungaBu project was represented at the national workshop by Jean Nepomuscene, Field Coordinator for KungaBu, Jean Bosco Mushengezi, Field Technician for KungaBu, and Jean Marie Vianney Kabirigi, the Project Focal Person representing Burera District. Their participation provided an opportunity to engage with other programme partners, exchange experiences, and learn from innovative approaches being implemented across Rwanda.
The National Workshop reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between development partners, government institutions, and local organizations in addressing Rwanda’s nutrition challenges. By bringing together stakeholders from across the country, the event helped foster knowledge sharing and strengthen partnerships that are essential for scaling up innovative solutions that combat malnutrition and stunting.
At ARECO-RWANDA NZIZA, we returned from the workshop energized and inspired, carrying fresh ideas and renewed determination. Our commitment to the KungaBu project is stronger than ever—not only to transform the Kamiranzovu marshland area, but also to contribute meaningfully to Rwanda’s broader vision of a well-nourished, secure, and prosperous population.
