Rwanda launches biotechnology project to combat crop diseases and pests

This Monday, December 15, 2025, Rwanda has officially launched a major biotechnology project aimed at combating crop diseases and pests that have long undermined agricultural productivity, food security, and farmers’ incomes across the country.

The project was inaugurated by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI), Ms. Uwituje Solange, at the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) / ISAR Rubona research station. It seeks to harness modern biotechnology to develop crop varieties that are resistant to diseases, pests, and climate stress, while reducing dependence on chemical pesticides.

Speaking at the launch, Ms. Uwituje highlighted the persistent challenges faced by Rwandan farmers due to crop diseases and pests.

"There were no effective solutions for maize, bananas were affected by pests such as weevils, and cassava and potatoes suffered from recurring diseases. This project focuses on how biotechnology can be used to develop crop varieties that can withstand climate change, diseases, and pests. That is exactly what this initiative is meant to address," she said.

She explained that the Rubona research station, which has traditionally focused on cassava, maize, and potato research, will now be strengthened and expanded to include banana research, alongside advanced technologies such as genetic engineering and gene editing.

"This center will be further equipped with modern technologies, and Rwandan researchers will also benefit from short-term training programs in the United States. Our goal is to achieve high and sustainable yields while significantly reducing the use of chemical pesticides," State Minister Uwituje added.

Mainstreaming biotechnology in agriculture

Dr. Simon Heck, Director General of the International Potato Center (CIP), described the project as a major step toward embedding biotechnology across Rwanda’s agricultural system.

"Biotechnology must be mainstreamed from policy to research and training institutions as a pillar of agricultural development. In crops such as potato and banana, we already have biotechnology products, and this project will make them accessible to farmers," he said.

Dr. Heck noted that biotechnology increases productivity per unit of land, water, and labor—an advantage that is particularly important for a small, densely populated country like Rwanda.

"Rwanda is one of the most progressive countries globally in embracing agricultural biotechnology. With this new project, these technologies will be integrated into extension services and educational institutions so that farmers and consumers can benefit from more nutritious, affordable, and reliable food," he added.

Positioning Rwanda as a regional leader

Dr. Hugo Campos emphasized that the initiative goes beyond science to focus on real-world impact for farmers.

"Rwanda is positioning itself to become a leader on the African continent in the use of biotechnology for the benefit of farmers and the wider population. This project is not just about science; it is about action and reaching farmers, not only researchers," he said.

International investment and farmer-centered impact

Representing development partners, Lawrence Kent said the project aligns with efforts to improve livelihoods for smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of food production in Africa.

"We operate on the principle that every person, no matter where they are in the world, deserves the opportunity to live a productive and healthy life. In Africa, improving agricultural productivity is essential because smallholder farmers are the primary source of food and income for their families," he said.

Kent revealed that a new investment, estimated at around USD 14 million over five years, will support the establishment of a center of excellence at Rubona, strengthen human capacity, and ensure that biotechnology is applied safely and effectively.

"This investment will help Rwanda become a center of excellence in crop biotechnology, benefiting not only the country but also the wider region," he added.

Concrete solutions for major crop challenges

Dr. Eric Magembe, Global Molecular and Technical Research Lead with the USAID Feed the Future Global Biotech Potato Partnership, explained that the project is designed to build long-term national capacity.

"This project aims to establish a center of excellence in crop biotechnology at the Rubona station. We are building the capacity of RAB and Rwandan scientists to develop biotech crops, guide them through regulatory approval, and support their adoption by farmers," he said.

According to Magembe, the project will initially focus on developing: Potatoes resistant to late blight, Cassava resistant to brown streak disease, and Bananas resistant to banana bacterial wilt.

"We are also strengthening capacity in biotechnology communication, biosafety, and regulation. All this work will be done in Rwanda, by Rwandan scientists, and for the benefit of Rwandan farmers," he added.

A transformative step for Rwandan agriculture

The biotechnology initiative is expected to significantly reduce crop losses caused by pests and diseases, increase yields, lower production costs, and enhance food security. By combining strong policy support, advanced research, and international collaboration, the project positions Rwanda as an emerging hub for agricultural biotechnology in Africa.

As implementation begins, stakeholders express optimism that the initiative will deliver tangible benefits to farmers, consumers, and the national economy marking a decisive shift toward resilient, technology-driven agriculture in Rwanda.