Alfred Nsengiyumva, is a resident of Rubumba cell and a member of Twigire-Muhunzi extension model whereby in his village 20 farmers consolidated land and formed an association.
After putting in place saving mechanisms, farmers now can buy fertilizers and seedlings easily and on time.
Nsengiyumva also says that in most villages, farmers have already planted for the season 2015A thanks for Twigire muhinzi program that facilitates farmers access required materials in time.
Nsengiyunva was revealed this during the launch of growing season 2015A on district level which was held in Gitara cell, Kabare sector of Kayonza district on September 9.
Other residents joined Nsengiyunva and said that due to the great work by Twigire-Umuhinzi model saying they have already purchased seeds and fertilisers unlike before when they could sit at the sector premises for a long time waiting for the incentives.
“In this season, we are emphasizing Twigire-Muhinzi program. It’s one way to improve agriculture leading farmers to fast social economic development,” said Odette Uwamariya; governor of Eastern Province.
Cabinet minister Stella Ford Mugabo, who also attended the event advised farmers to follow advice from agriculture officials and experts, saying following advice increases productivity.
Terraces have turned some hills of Kabare sector productive when the area was infertile because of soil erosion.
Apart from terraces that were made by RSSP-LWH, residents are optimistic Twigire muhinzi program will improve their conditions.
Sengiyunva also mentioned that among the benefits of this program is that farmers have a strong say in their needs assessment and planning.
Twigire Muhinzi Extension Model brings together two approaches of agricultural extension namely farmer promoters and farmer field school (FFS). In FFS approach crop serve as teacher while field serve as a classroom.
The official explained that Twigire Muhinzi Extension Model brings together these two approaches to increase field productivity, knowledge in crop management and give capacity to farmer groups to make decision regarding farming activities.
She therefore urged farmers to embrace Twigire extension model since it has solution to all challenges that farmers face.
Source: Umuhinzi.com
UM– USEKE.RW