6 Years of AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd's Visionary Journey

Sept. 12, 2024, 5:45 a.m.

Six years ago, a young Rwandan named Abdu Usanase embarked on a mission to revolutionize African agriculture. Starting with a small student club at University of Rwanda, he and his team have built AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd into a powerhouse of innovation and technology. Today, as we celebrate this milestone, let's delve into the inspiring journey of this organization and its impact on the agricultural landscape.

From Classroom to Community

Abdu’s vision was born out of a deep concern for the plight of African farmers. He recognized the untapped potential of community-based research and the role of universities in driving agricultural transformation. In 2018, Abdu, together with eight fellow students at the University of Rwanda, founded the AGRIRESEARCH Club with a contribution of $75 saved from their living allowances. This platform allows students to engage in market-oriented agricultural research, develop their skills, and create innovative solutions.

Over the years, the AGRIRESEARCH Club has empowered thousands of students, fostering a research culture and equipping them with the tools to succeed in the agribusiness sector. Through community outreach programs, the club has also reached over 3,000 farmers, introducing them to climate-smart agricultural practices.

Figure 1: AGRIRESEARCH Club members celebrating the harvest from the Climate Smart Agriculture model farm

A Hub of Agricultural Innovation

AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd, which sprouted from the AGRIRESEARCH Club, has become a hub of agricultural innovation, particularly focusing on the potato value chain. The company’s research has yielded remarkable results, including the development of innovative planting structures and bio-fungicide combinations to control late blight. This research was recognized among the best climate-smart potato research projects in Africa by the African Potato Association at the 12th African Potato Association’s triennial conference, held in Lilongwe, Malawi, from June 27 to July 1, 2022.

AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd conducted various game-changing research projects, including the grafting of potatoes and tomatoes for double harvests in small spaces, and staking beans with thread stakes, a high-yielding, environmentally friendly approach.

The innovative solutions deployed by AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd have established it as a prominent player in agricultural research and extension in Rwanda. The company has won the Best Exhibitor Award three times in a row at the Rwanda Agriculture Show: in the Research category (2022 and 2024) and the Youth category (2023) during the 15th, 16th, and 17th editions of the show.

Figure 2: In three consecutive years, AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA has been awarded as best exhibitor in Rwanda Agriculture show

Technology for Farmers

Recognizing the power of technology, AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd has developed several digital tools to empower farmers. The SmartInput mobile app provides personalized recommendations for inputs, while the AGRITrials app connects farmers with experts for advice and knowledge sharing.

Figure 3: SmartInputs technology Launch at Grand Legacy Hotel

Addressing Food Security and Nutrition

Beyond crop production, AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd has also focused on addressing food security and nutrition. The organization has developed nutritious potato-based bread and snacks to combat malnutrition, especially among children.

Sustainable Solutions

AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd is committed to sustainable agriculture. The company is spearheading the Agricultural Green Research and Innovation Park Initiative (AGRIPI) – Rwanda’s first-ever green agricultural research and innovation center, hosted at the University of Rwanda, College of Agriculture, Animal Sciences, and Veterinary Medicine (UR-CAVM). AGRIPI tests and develops technologies and best practices for regenerative agriculture and eco-friendly post-harvest solutions.

Figure 4: Agricultural Green Research and Innovation Park Initiative (AGRIPI)

A Vision for the Future

As AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd celebrates its 6th anniversary, it continues to look ahead. The organization's vision is to create a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector in Africa. Through its research, education, and technology, AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd is making a significant contribution to this goal.