Potato farmers in Rubavu District are demanding compensation after allegedly suffering heavy losses linked to poor-quality potato seeds distributed by Tubura.
The farmers claim the seeds, which they were told were high-yield and certified, either rotted in the soil or dried up shortly after germination, leaving many fields with stunted or failed crops.
Several growers say the damage could drastically reduce production this season, with some expecting harvests to fall by more than half compared to previous years.
One farmer said land that previously produced up to 10 tonnes of potatoes may now yield less than two tonnes because of the failed seeds.
The farmers also pointed to neighbouring fields planted with seeds sourced from other suppliers, where crops reportedly remain healthy and productive.
“We want those responsible to assess the losses and compensate us,” one of the affected farmers said.
Iradukunda Jamvier confirmed that the organisation has been receiving complaints from farmers but maintained that the seeds distributed had passed certification requirements.
He said investigations are ongoing to determine the root cause of the problem, noting that poor yields can also result from factors such as crop diseases or soil conditions.
The Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) said seeds supplied to farmers are normally required to undergo quality testing before distribution.
Officials from RAB’s Tamira Station said the institution will facilitate discussions between the affected farmers and Tubura to assess the reported losses and identify possible remedies.
