Kayonza district in Rwanda is grappling with severe drought conditions, having recorded the lowest rainfall for three consecutive years as reported by the Rwanda Metrology Agency. This shift from occasional rainfall threats to a persistent dry season has devastating effects on agriculture, leaving farmers struggling and reliant on government aid to meet their basic food needs.

Residents in Mukoyoyo village, such as agricultural advisor Valens Ndakaza, emphasize the urgency for irrigation as the only sustainable solution to their agricultural challenges. Despite its fertile lands and substantial population of over 450,000, Kayonza’s agricultural output has been severely limited by these environmental changes, resulting in scorched fields and increased dependency on emergency food relief from the government.

The initiative to enhance irrigation in Kayonza represents a critical effort to combat the impacts of climate change on local farming. By addressing the irrigation needs, the district aims to improve food security and resilience against climate variability, fostering a system that empowers farmers and encourages sustainable agricultural practices amidst changing weather patterns.