In Rwanda, women are a pillar of agriculture. The Fifth Rwanda Population and Housing Census (2022) shows that 77% of women work in agriculture, compared to 58% of men. The National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR), in its 2024 Labour Force Survey, reports that 67.4% of women are engaged in agriculture, compared to 47.3% of men. The 2024 National Gender Statistics report indicates that 68.9% of households in Rwanda are involved in agriculture, highlighting that this sector is crucial for national sustenance and plays a significant role in the economy.
Rachel Mukandayisenga, a maize farmer in the Inkuka marshland, Nyarugenge District, Mageragere Sector, says she uses environmentally friendly practices such as planting trees on her farm. However, she faces challenges including limited access to pesticides, quality seeds, agroecology training, and funding to buy seeds, fertilizers, and chemicals. She says, “Although I have tried traditional and eco-friendly farming methods, I need training, access to quality seeds, pesticides, and financial support to increase production. With these, I can achieve higher yields while protecting the environment.”
Anastazi Nzeyima, a male farmer in the same sector, explains that gender equality is essential for sustainable agriculture. When women are not given equal opportunities in decision-making, land access, or control over their produce, overall productivity decreases. He adds, “Involving women in farming activities increases production and benefits family relationships.”
NISR’s 2024 data shows that Rwanda has 2.2 million farming households, representing 65.3% of all households. Of these, 74.3% are headed by men and 25.7% by women. The National Gender Statistics 2024 report indicates that 94.8% of women farmers have land access compared to 93.7% of men. Regarding financial inclusion in non-bank savings groups, women’s participation rose from 44% to 53%, while men’s increased from 54% to 65%.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI) reports that women constitute 64% of agricultural workers and 42% of cooperative members. The Rwanda Agriculture Board (RAB) reports that women represent at least 45% of project beneficiaries, particularly in training programs and access to productivity-enhancing inputs.
Raymond Kamwe, in charge of Community Development and Women and Youth Empowerment at RAB, emphasizes that programs supporting women through training, access to seeds and fertilizers, and participation in cooperatives help increase productivity and give women a voice in agricultural decisions. He says, “Women’s and youth empowerment in agriculture ensures they participate in decision-making, boost production, and effectively utilize the resources provided.”
Dr. Abias Maniragaba, an agricultural researcher, explains that agroecology is an environmentally friendly farming approach that promotes food security and helps mitigate the effects of climate change. Training women in agroecology can strengthen their role in decision-making and encourage sustainable practices. He adds, “Limited knowledge and traditional mindsets still restrict women’s full participation in agriculture, but training and gender-inclusive practices can overcome these challenges.”
A United Nations study on agricultural productivity in Rwanda indicates that closing the gender gap could increase national agricultural output by $418.6 million and create 238,000 jobs annually over the next 10 years.
