In a significant stride towards bolstering Rwanda’s cassava farming sector, IITA–CGIAR handed over two LAMP technology devices to the Rwanda Inspectorate, Competition and Consumer Protection Authority (RICA) on 4 October. RICA’s receipt and use of these innovative devices represent improved capacity for cassava disease diagnostics as a crucial step in inspecting and certifying early-generation seed in Rwanda. Quality early-generation seed is a critical driver of the entire seed value chain in delivering clean seed to the farmers.
Cassava, a staple crop in Rwanda, has been increasingly affected by various diseases, posing a significant threat to food security and the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. The importance of cassava in Rwanda’s agricultural landscape cannot be overlooked. It contributes to the nation’s food supply and is vital to its economy, particularly in rural areas. Therefore, addressing the diseases affecting cassava is pivotal to ensuring good yields, a stable market, and the overall well-being of communities.
The Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) devices donated by IITA are set to revolutionize cassava disease diagnosis in Rwanda. These devices are invaluable tools that will enable Rwandan seed inspectors to pinpoint various aspects of the cassava crop, particularly the presence of viral and other diseases. Viruses, widely known for their ability to hide within plants, necessitate constant testing to minimize their spread and enable early intervention.
RICA Director General Beatrice Uwumukiza thanked IITA and CGIAR for the continued support provided to RICA, including training staff and providing these important devices to complement their activities. “Our inspectors will now be able to conduct diagnostics, make informed decisions, and provide prompt feedback to seed entrepreneurs. We look forward to further collaboration with IITA and CGIAR in Rwanda, benefiting not only RICA but also the Ministry of Trade and the Ministry of Agriculture, as well as the Rwanda Agriculture Board,” she said.
IITA Country Representative Konlambigue Matieyedou highlighted the Institute’s objectives in Rwanda, aligning them with the Government of Rwanda’s Strategic Plan for Agriculture Transformation 4 (PSTA 4). “IITA’s intervention aims to establish a vibrant and resilient cassava seed system, as outlined in PSTA 4. The strength of this system depends on a robust regulatory agency, and this is where RICA plays a pivotal role. Our intervention seeks to enhance the capacity of RICA staff to accelerate the availability and accessibility of quality seeds,” he explained.
After the official handover ceremony, IITA Plant Pathologist Rudolph Nshirima conducted a comprehensive three-day training program for seven lab technicians—five from RICA and two from the Rwanda Agriculture Board (RAB). The training focused on effectively utilizing the LAMP technology to diagnose cassava diseases in the fields and achieve optimal results.
The LAMP technology is expected to significantly accelerate inspection work and improve accuracy in disease diagnosis. The adaptability of this technology extends beyond cassava, making it applicable to other crops. The LAMP devices promise to enhance the effectiveness of seed inspection, ultimately reducing the rate of seed quality deterioration over time.
IITA and other CGIAR centers—the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) focusing on policy aspects and the International Potato Center (CIP)—are actively involved in strengthening Rwanda’s cassava sector. IFPRI and CIP focus on policy aspects and potato-related initiatives, respectively. This collaborative approach ensures a comprehensive strategy to enhance Rwanda’s agricultural landscape.
Contributed by Ritha BumweContribué par
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