New Cassava Factory Nears Completion

A new cassava processing plant in Ruhango district, worth Rwf5billion, is expected to boost economic activity, once complete in September.

The plant will have the capacity to process 250 tonnes of raw cassava and produce 60 tonnes of cassava flour on a daily basis.

Rwanda Development Bank (BRD) is funding the project.

According to Jack Kayonga, the BRD Managing Director, the state-of the-art facility will benefit both the residents and the country's economy

"The factory will increase the residents' incomes and provide market for the local cassava farmers," Kayonga said.

"This is a step towards development and will enable Rwanda to compete in the regional market and reduce dependence on imported cassava products," he added.

Kayonga noted that it's the duty of the bank to propel such development programs, which have been set by the government.

The Local leaders noted that the plant will buy Cassava from farmers in other districts, including Ruhango, Kamonyi, Bugesera and Nyanza.

Vitali Rwibasira, a representative of cassava farmers noted that once completed, the factory will bring a smile to farmers who had in the past lost hope in cassava production due to lack market.

He also noted that business and trade in the community will be boosted and social welfare will improve.

The Cassava plant will create 68 full time jobs and many other temporary ones.