Rwandan exporters of vegetables and fruits have pledged to reduce the volume of produce returned from international markets by 80% by 2028.

The Government of Rwanda has dispatched 26 exporters to the United Kingdom to explore new markets for fruits and vegetables, as the country moves swiftly to cushion traders and farmers from losses triggered by disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict.

Rwanda is set to host the launch of the Africa Food Systems (AFS) Forum, marking two decades of the continent’s efforts to strengthen food security and transform agricultural systems.

Rwandan exporters of fruits and vegetables say the war involving the United States and Israel against Iran has already caused them losses exceeding Rwf100 million within just two weeks.

Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Rwanda’s economy, sustaining a large share of the population, which explains the government’s significant investments in this sector. Traditionally reliant on conventional methods, Rwandan farming has faced challenges such as low yields, climate change, limited access to fertilizers, and seed shortages.