Rwanda

Country Context

Rwanda’s economic growth remains closely tied to smallholder agriculture, with about 65 percent of households relying on farming as a primary source of income. Most agricultural households manage very small plots, with nearly 72 percent cultivating less than half a hectare, which places firm limits on productivity and earning potential. Despite fertile land and favorable conditions, population pressure and land constraints continue to strain farm output. 

As Rwanda’s population increases, the country must raise agricultural yields to meet food demand while supporting rural livelihoods. Yet many farmers lack access to the practical skills and services needed to improve results. Recent national data show that most farmers have only primary-level education, and fewer than one in five have completed secondary school, heightening the need for hands-on training and reliable extension support. Without stronger access to knowledge, markets and income pathways, many rural families remain locked in low returns from agriculture, with direct consequences for food security and household stability. 

Our Response

Since its inception in 2000, Heifer Rwanda has collaborated with partners and donors — including the government of Rwanda, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the African Development Bank (AfDB) — to increase impact and reach. Heifer Rwanda now has several projects covering 28 of the country’s 30 districts. 

Heifer Rwanda has evolved alongside the government’s agenda and vision for the region, beginning with asset provision to help families manage economic and environmental shocks, then expanding into holistic community development and, more recently, value chain and market development. 

Our primary objective is helping families achieve a sustainable living income, our measure for the amount of money required for a decent life — including safe shelter, nutritious food, clothing, education and health care — while also reaching additional benchmarks for economic and climate resilience.

The Rwanda Signature Program

Heifer International’s work is organized at the country level into signature programs focused on large-scale, measurable and sustainable impact achieved by building partnerships at all levels. Each program supports farmers through time-bound projects designed to increase their household income.

Agribusiness Transformation

The Agribusiness Transformation signature program is designed to support farmers, women, youth and entrepreneurs as they build stronger agriculture and livestock businesses. By combining production support, skill development, finance and market access, the program helps rural households increase income and participate in competitive value chains across the country.