KAMONYI, Rwanda** – On February 21, 2018, ARDE/KUBAHO, in collaboration with Medicus Mundi Spain, conducted a fruitful visit to various beneficiary cooperatives in Kamonyi District, showcasing the remarkable advancements made in local agriculture and community empowerment.
The team began its visit at the “DUHARANIRE UBUZIMA KARANGARA” cooperative in the Ngamba sector, where members shared insights into their farming activities. Notably, the cooperative has not only excelled in banana cultivation but also diversified into pineapple farming. The cooperative’s president emphasized their vision to expand banana plantations and distribute superior banana varieties throughout the community.
Diana from ARDE highlighted the technical knowledge shared during the visit, particularly regarding banana farming techniques. A representative from Medicus Mundi, Veronique, engaged in discussions with cooperative members, addressing their queries and challenges in banana and tomato farming. During the visit, the manager of DUHARANIRE UBUZIMA KARANGARA shared a transformative experience: “Before we had low self-esteem, but after receiving training from ARDE and UGAMA, we are transforming our communities.” This sentiment echoed through the cooperative as members voiced their dedication to supporting one another, reflecting a spirit of collaboration and mutual aid.
The head of all cooperatives in the Ngamba sector expressed pride in the cooperative’s achievements, particularly their innovative banana planting techniques. He urged members to continue setting an example for their community, advocating for financial literacy and strategic market studies to enhance their agricultural practices.
Maria Sun, a representative from Medicus Mundi, praised the visible improvements in the cooperatives since her last visit, noting the significant progress made by the members. She encouraged them to maintain their hard work and dedication. The visit also included the “ABATICUMUGAMBI” and “TUZAMURANE GIHARA” cooperatives, where members shared their commitment to fruit multiplication, cattle farming, and community education on various issues.
The president of TUZAMURANE GIHARA mentioned the positive impact of training in cooperative management, reading, and writing, which has improved the nutritional status of their children. As the visit concluded on March 31, a farewell meeting was held at the ARDE office to celebrate the collaborative efforts of all partners involved.
The executive director of ARDE/KUBAHO presented a comprehensive overview of past and ongoing projects, highlighting the importance of strategic partnerships in fostering community development. In a heartfelt address, Mr. Paul Murenzi, president of ARDE/KUBAHO, expressed gratitude for the collaboration with Medicus Mundi over the past three years, stating, “We rank them first” for their contributions to Rwanda’s development.
Outgoing country director Madam Chantal Nikuze also reflected on her enriching experiences working with local partners, emphasizing the collective impact of their efforts. Maria Sun concluded the meeting with a powerful message about the importance of local partnerships in achieving social transformation.
“Without your hard work, Medicus Mundi wouldn’t function,” she stated, reinforcing the vital role that local cooperatives play in the organization’s mission. The day ended on a joyous note as ARDE presented gifts to their visitors, celebrating the enduring relationships built through shared goals of empowerment and community development. As these cooperatives continue to thrive, they embody the spirit of collaboration and resilience, proving that collective efforts can lead to profound change in rural Rwanda.
