Rwandan exporters of vegetables and fruits have pledged to reduce the volume of produce returned from international markets by 80% by 2028.
Traders specializing in chili, tomatoes, avocados, and coffee say they will achieve this through improved farming practices and proper pesticide use, supported by the country’s growing expertise and infrastructure.
The government-backed VIBE project is assisting over 200 companies to meet international quality standards. The five-year initiative also focuses on creating jobs, especially for youth and women.
More than 80 trainees, mostly youth, have already been trained to help companies reduce rejected produce caused by quality issues.
Rwanda Standards Board (RSB) now uses advanced laboratories to test pesticide residues, ensuring crops meet global market requirements. In 2024/25, over 6,000 samples were analyzed, with 70% from agricultural and livestock products.
RSB’s capacity has more than doubled in two years, allowing faster and more comprehensive testing. Certified results reassure buyers and help exporters minimize losses while strengthening Rwanda’s reputation in global markets.
