To gain more insight, IGIHE spoke with Rwanda's High Commissioner to Zambia, Emmanuel Bugingo. He confirmed the allocation of the land and emphasized Rwanda's readiness to utilize it effectively as per the agreements.
"Zambia provided this land to increase food production. It wasn't a request; the agricultural agreement includes many aspects beyond just land," Amb. Bugingo explained.
He further noted that the land has not yet been utilized due to infrastructural requirements that the Zambian government must fulfill. These include constructing roads for access, installing electricity for irrigation, and other necessary infrastructure.
'There is still work to be done by the Zambian government to delineate the land, and they are working on it,' Amb. Bugingo added.
The completion of these tasks will ensure the land can be used as intended, facilitated by the collaborative efforts of both countries.
This collaboration means Rwanda will also have a role once the land is officially handed over. Amb. Bugingo mentioned that Zambia has assured them of this, noting that some aspects require budget allocations but will be completed soon.
'Once the land is in the hands of the Rwandan government, our well-governed country will find a way to leverage it efficiently,' he stated.
When asked whether the farmers cultivating the land will be Rwandans or local Zambians, Amb. Bugingo said relevant authorities will determine the best approach to maximize the land's potential.
Zambia is known for producing various crops, including maize, cassava, millet, peanuts, soybeans, and sorghum. Amb. Bugingo mentioned that the specific crops for the granted land have not yet been determined, but experts will assess its potential once it is handed over, given Zambia's reputation for fertile soil.
Rwanda and Zambia continue to foster their relationship based on mutual respect, support in times of both adversity and prosperity, and other forms of cooperation.
On July 18, 2024, Zambia received a donation of 1,000 metric tonnes of relief maize from Rwanda. The donation was a response to the severe drought affecting Zambia and other Southern African countries, exacerbated by the El Niño weather phenomenon and climate change. The drought has affected 84 out of Zambia's 116 districts.
During the handover, Rwandan High Commissioner to Zambia, Emmanuel Bugingo, assured of Rwanda's continuous support whenever possible. He expressed gratitude to the Zambian government for allocating 10,000 hectares of land to Rwanda for agriculture, adding that this partnership will be a sustainable solution to food security issues in both countries.
IGIHE
