

Diversification in East and Southern Africa
In 2023, Ukama Ustawi’s (UU) activities in Rwanda focused on several key initiatives aimed at enhancing the region’s agribusiness sector. They launched the second call for applications for their Food System Accelerator, targeting agribusinesses looking to scale their operations. Additionally, plans were set to host a national policy dialogue in Rwanda in 2024 to discuss broader agricultural policies. Throughout the year, Ukama Ustawi also conducted an impact assessment of their accelerator program to evaluate its effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
In 2024, UU is poised to continue its impactful work in Rwanda, focusing on advancing food systems through strategic partnerships and innovative tools. A notable initiative is the continuation of the second cohort of the CGIAR Food Systems Accelerator (CFSA), which aims to boost the capabilities of the agribusiness industry. Alongside this, UU will maintain its partnership to provide ongoing technical assistance to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), supporting them in becoming more competitive and sustainable. Additionally, UU will employ the Policy Practice Index Tool, developed in collaboration with the Association for Strengthening Agricultural Research in Eastern and Central Africa (ASARECA). This tool is designed to track and enhance policy formulation and implementation across ASARECA’s member countries, ensuring that agricultural policies are effectively supporting the region’s agricultural development and research needs. These initiatives collectively aim to foster a robust agricultural sector in Rwanda, characterized by innovation, sustainability, and enhanced policy frameworks.
Partnerships
- International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC)
- Association for Strengthening Agricultural Research in Eastern and Central Africa (ASARECA)
- Wageningen University & Research (WUR)
- The Rallying Cry
- 2SCALE
- AKADEMIYA2063
- UC Davis