Rwanda is embarking on a $6.4 billion plan to modernize its agriculture and livestock sectors, aiming to double production, achieve full food self-sufficiency, and expand exports by 2029.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI) said the investment will strengthen farming, livestock production, and resilience against climate change while improving rural livelihoods. Agriculture contributes about 25% of Rwanda’s gross domestic product, according to the National Institute of Statistics.
Under the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), Rwanda’s self-sufficiency ratio is set to rise from 79.6% in 2024 to 100% by 2029. Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva told Parliament in October 2025 that per capita agricultural output had increased from $754 in 2017 to $1,040 in 2024, with nearly 70% of Rwandans relying on the sector.
The government also targets a 13% annual increase in exports, with revenues expected to reach $7.3 billion by 2029. Agricultural and livestock production is projected to grow by at least 50% during the same period.
MINAGRI plans to expand irrigation across large and small plots, wetlands, and hillsides, increasing irrigated land from 74,000 hectares in 2025 to 132,171 hectares by 2029. Farmers will receive subsidies covering half the cost of irrigation equipment for plots under 10 hectares. Additionally, 19,548 dedicated “food basket” plots covering 587,489 hectares are being established.
High-yield seeds, expanded chemical fertilizer use, and organic manure promotion will boost yields while improving resilience against climate change.
Livestock modernization is a priority. Improved breeds, expanded cattle, small livestock, and fish farming, and technology such as embryo transfer are being introduced. Fish production is projected to rise from 52,000 tons in 2025 to 77,000 tons in 2029, while egg production will increase from 17,000 tons to 21,000 tons. Rwanda has invested over 36.6 billion Rwandan francs in livestock vaccines since 2017.
Reducing post-harvest losses is another key goal. Current losses of 13.8% are targeted to drop below 5% by 2029, through new storage facilities, modern drying equipment, cold storage, and better roads. Storage capacity will increase from 318,025 metric tons to over 420,000 metric tons, and large milk collection centers will rise from 135 to 193.
MINAGRI also emphasizes research, technology adoption, and coordination across the food value chain, accounting for nearly a quarter of the planned budget.
The investment reflects Rwanda’s commitment to transforming its agriculture sector, securing food for its population, and boosting global export revenue.
