Enhancing Value Chain Innovation in Rwanda’s Agricultural Sector
From July 23 to 25 the Agricultural Service Training and Innovation Centres (STICs) took part in an intensive Value Chain Training Workshop at IPRC Huye. This training aimed to strengthen the capacity of STICs in Rwanda through a series of lectures, breakout sessions, and collaborative discussions on value chain addition in the agricultural sector, in particular in the fields of dairy, potato, horticulture, poultry and agri-tourism.
Empowering Through Knowledge
The primary goal of the workshop was to develop strategies and action plans for integrating value addition into the services and programs offered by STICs. This aligned with the STIC model’s emphasis on knowledge sharing and collaboration between education and private sector partners.
Service Training and Innovation Centres (STICs) in Rwanda are specialized facilities designed to enhance collaboration between academia, industry, and government in the agricultural sector. They focus on applied research, capacity building, and community outreach to develop practical solutions and innovative techniques for farming. By fostering partnerships and providing training, STICs aim to improve food security, enhance nutrition, and increase the resilience of the agricultural sector. These centers serve as dynamic platforms for driving agricultural innovation and sustainable development.
Diverse Learning Areas:
- Value Addition Insights: Participants received training on the concept of value addition and its benefits for STICs and the broader agricultural sector.
- Practical Techniques: Various techniques applicable to different agricultural value chains, including dairy, horticulture, poultry, potato, and agro-tourism, were discussed.
- Local Adaptation: The workshop emphasized value addition techniques that are relevant and feasible within the local Rwandan context, helping participants understand market requirements and consumer preferences for value-added products.
Workshop Highlights:
- Day 1: Introduction to value chain analysis, the importance of value chains, and governance models.
- Day 2: Focus on value chain upgrading, sustainability standards, and partnerships.
- Day 3: Trust building within value chains and government support for value addition.
The workshop saw active participation from members of the five various STICs, institutions, and a coordination team. The training aimed to empower the STICs with practical skills and a deep understanding of value-added products, leading to improved food security, better nutrition, and increased resilience against environmental and economic changes.
This training workshop was a the last training in the ongoing effort to transform Rwanda’s agricultural value chain through innovation, public-private partnerships, and sustainable practices. The event marked a significant milestone towards a resilient and prosperous agricultural sector.
Orange Knowledge Programme
This project is part of the Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) which is funded by the Netherlands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and managed by Nuffic. For more information click here.
MSM's Expert Centre on Emerging Economies
This institutional collaboration project is part of MSM's Expert Centre on Emerging Economies. The department is an expert centre on local economic development in emerging and developing markets. We capacitate managers and professionals from government, private sector, NGOs, and post-secondary education in Africa, Asia, Middle East, and Latin America. We offer consultancy and customized training programs, and we manage complex projects in key sectors, e.g. water, agriculture and health. For more information click here.
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