Rusizi: Cassava Farmers Appeal to the Government

Farmers of cassava used to produce flour for traditional porridge are pleading for the government’s intervention as this year they’ve harvested a significant amount, but the market is lacking, leaving them at risk of losing everything.

In the regions of Bugarama, Gitambi, Gikundamvura, and Muganza, residents have always harvested a lot of cassava. However, this time, farmers report an increase in their yield but a lack of buyers. As a result, the price per kilogram has dropped from Rwf 500 to Rwf 180.

Athanase Musonera, a farmer from Kizura Village in Gikundamvura Sector, says that compared to last year, this year’s harvest is a total loss for them.

He said, “This year, cassava yielded well, but we have no market. Farmers are suffering as we’re selling it at Rwf 180 per kilo, which is nothing compared to the Rwf 500 we got last season.”

Bonifirida Mukashyaka, another cassava farmer, believes the effort they put into farming far outweighs the profits they make.

She added, “Even though we’ve had a great harvest, it’s tough to even pay school fees for our children. As cassava farmers, we put in a lot of work, but now the price per kilo is Rwf 180—there’s no way to make enough to support our families.”

Abraham Ndayisabye, another cassava farmer, echoed these concerns, explaining that even selling 100 kilograms wouldn’t cover basic family healthcare needs.

“This year, we’ve made losses. A 100-kilogram sack of dried cassava sells for Rwf 18,000, but even after selling, we can’t afford school fees or health insurance,” he explained.

The farmers are urging the government to step in and help increase the price of cassava.

The Rusizi District authorities have acknowledged the issue, saying that it’s common for prices to drop when there’s a surplus in harvests. They advise farmers to store the cassava and only harvest in smaller quantities. They also promise to help improve storage facilities by next year.

Alfred Habimana, the Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Development in Rusizi District, stated, “Whenever crops yield in abundance, their price tends to fall. Farmers should store the cassava or harvest it in smaller amounts. By next month, prices will rise again, and as a district, next year, we will work with experts to improve cassava storage techniques.”

Last year, a total of 8,112 hectares were used for cassava farming in the entire Rusizi District.

Although farmers currently lack proper storage, cassava can be seen drying in many household courtyards across the Bugarama Valley.