Rwanda’s Former Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Dr. Gerardine Mukeshimana, was on July 31 appointed Vice-President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
“I am pleased to announce that after a very robust recruitment process, including an external panel review, I have appointed Ms Gérardine Mukeshimana, a national of Rwanda, as Vice-President.” Said IFAD President Alvaro Lario, in a statement issued on July 31.
For eight years, Gérardine served as Minister for Agriculture and Animal Resources of Rwanda.
During her tenure, she transformed the agricultural sector into one of the most successful performing on the continent. Farmers experienced dramatic improvement in their livelihoods.
In addition, Gérardine engaged with rural youth, attracted private sector interest in agri-business in Rwanda, and pioneered the use of climate funds for the agricultural sector.
The Ex-agriculture minister possesses a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture and Horticulture from the University of Rwanda, a Master’s Degree and a doctorate in Plant breeding and Genetics- Crop and Soil Sciences from Michigan State University (USA).
IFAD President Alvaro Lario further added that Gérardine will bring to IFAD her extensive knowledge and networks in the agricultural development domain, including with other multilateral development banks and climate funds, as well as her strong technical experience from her work and research at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) and Michigan State University.
Gérardine will join IFAD effective on 28 August 2023.
