Farmers in Gatsibo advised to plant fast-maturing crops amid rainfall shortages
While some farmers in Gatsibo District are concerned about a potential poor harvest due to irregular rainfall during the 2025A planting season, district authorities are encouraging them to switch to fast-growing and drought-resistant crops.
The sporadic lack of rain in parts of the Eastern Province has become a significant challenge for farmers. Several farmers in Gatsibo District reported that the maize seeds they planted have failed to germinate due to insufficient rainfall.
Gatsibo District Mayor, Richard Gasana, reassured the farmers, advising them not to panic. He urged them to prioritize planting crops that mature quickly and can tolerate dry conditions whenever it rains.
“At this point, it’s best to avoid long-maturing crops. Instead, farmers should plant fast-growing crops like beans and sweet potato vines, which are more resilient to drought,” said Gasana.
Several farmers across Gatsibo District shared their concerns with Muhazi Yacu, explaining that they had already planted seeds but are still waiting for rain. Genevieve Nyibutsa, a resident of Rwimbogo Sector in Kiburara Cell, said, “We’ve already planted seeds, but there’s been no rain to help them grow. We’re worried about what will happen if this dry spell continues. Some areas haven’t even started planting because they haven’t received any moisture.”
Valens Munyahirwe, another resident from the same sector, mentioned that it’s now too late to plant maize. “If the rains come, we’ll plant beans, which grow faster. Maize takes longer to mature and needs more water,” he said.
For the 2025A planting season in Gatsibo District, the planned crops include maize, beans, soybeans, cassava, and rice. Beans, as one of the fast-maturing crops, are expected to be planted on 3,725.6 hectares.