On the rolling hills of Rusiga Sector in Rulindo District, a powerful story of resilience and transformation is unfolding. Dancille Mukagashayija, once a small-scale pig farmer, has built one of the most inspiring agribusiness success stories proving how access to finance, training, and determination can change lives.

When she first ventured into pig farming, progress was slow. The local breed she raised offered little return, and the lack of proper facilities limited her growth. But Dancille held on to her vision. She believed agriculture could open doors to a better future for her family and community.

Her turning point came when she learned about the Commercialization and De-risking for Agricultural Transformation (CDAT) Matching Grant , a World Bank–funded project implemented by Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) through its Single Project Implementation Unit (SPIU). She applied, her proposal was approved, and her project received 16 million RWF in support, matching her own contribution to make a total investment of 32 million RWF.

“I felt like a dream had come true,” she recalls. “I knew I was taking the first step out of poverty.”

With CDAT support, she constructed a modern piggery shed and acquired five improved breeds. Her farm grew rapidly, reaching 60 pigs within a short period. As her herd continues to expand, she is now preparing to build another piggery shed to accommodate the growing numbers.

But Dancille didn’t stop there. As her business took shape, she recognized a gap in the market. Consumers increasingly wanted not just pigs, but quality meat pork. Seizing the opportunity, she opened a butchery in Nyabugogo, Nyarugenge District, allowing her to process and sell pork directly to customers. This move turned her venture into a vertically integrated agribusiness — controlling production, processing, and sales.

Beyond her personal success, Dancille’s story is one of empowerment. Her agribusiness now employs youth and women. Her farm serves as a learning ground and inspiration for emerging farmers in Rulindo district and beyond.

“CDAT gave us courage,” she says. “Before, I didn’t believe I could manage this kind of enterprise. But now I’m confident — and I encourage other women and youth to step into farming and take it seriously.”