Exploring the benefits, challenges, and rationale behind growing crops of choice among farmers in Rwanda

Abstract

Farming decisions about crop choices are influenced by natural conditions, household needs, family traditions, stakeholder  recommendations, and crop productivity. The best decision varies for each farmer based on the specific circumstances. In Rwanda, where  agriculture employs 70% of the population and contributes 33% to GDP, the sector operates across three seasons. Despite these  conditions, food and nutritional insecurity remain significant issues affecting both human and economic progress. This study explored  the rationale, benefits, and challenges of farmers’ crop choices. This study employed a qualitative descriptive approach. Six Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were conducted, with two sessions per district. Each FGD included 10 participants and lasted one hour, maintaining  gender balance. Local community health workers (CHWs) facilitated recruitment, and participants gave informed consent. Trained data  collectors used voice recorders for data collection. Researchers transcribed, anonymized, and translated the data into English, then coded  and analysed it to generate themes and categories.Farmers grow diverse crops for income, export, and household consumption,  influenced by soil, climate, inherited knowledge, and stakeholder advice. Agriculture sustains their livelihoods through nutrition and  financial stability. However, they face challenges like pests, input access, climate change, and soil-crop incompatibility. These findings call  for holistic and context-specific solutions to agricultural development in Rwanda. Stakeholders should work together to support farmers  in making informed choices and promoting sustainable and profitable agriculture.