In the drought-prone hills of Kayonza District, farmers in Nyawera Cell of Mwiri Sector are beginning to see the true impact of climate-smart agriculture. What once looked like dry land with poor harvests is now producing healthy cassava crops thanks to the Kayonza Irrigation and Integrated Watershed Management Project Phase II (KIIWP2), funded by IFAD and implemented by RAB.

KIIWP2 aims to lift 40,000 rural households out of poverty by helping them adapt to climate change, increase food production, and earn more income. The project operates in nine drought affected sectors of Kayonza, including Mwiri, where long dry seasons have often left families hungry. By focusing on drought resistant crops, soil protection, irrigation, and climate-smart farming practices, the project is helping farmers build long-term

resilience.

One of the most promising sites is the 17-hectare cassava multiplication field in Nyawera, where four cassava varieties— Buryohe, Tebuka, Nsizebashonje, and NAM130—are being tested and multiplied. RAB’s researchers first verify whether each variety can survive the harsh climate and match the soil type.

Once approved, the best planting material is distributed to farmers. The field is expected to produce 26 tonnes of high-quality cassava cuttings, which will later be shared with households across Mwiri and nearby sectors. Women and youth, who make up the majority of KIIWP2 beneficiaries, are actively engaged in the work.

A Mother’s Journey from Struggle to Stability 

Among those whose lives have changed is Alphonsine Mukamugema, a hardworking mother of two children in secondary school and others in primary. She has been working with KIIWP2 and RAB at the Nyawera cassava site, and the income she earns has transformed her family’s life. 

“Before, we struggled to pay school fees and health insurance,” she says. “But now I can help my husband. I even bought a goat, it reproduced, and we sold one to help us build part of our house.”

Today, Alphonsine has four goats at home and a clear dream—to one day buy a cow. She says the project has given her confidence that her family can keep moving forward.

Farmers like Alphonsine are paid based on the number of kilograms they harvest. During peak harvest periods, the cassava is so abundant that local residents who are not part of the project are also hired to help. Each kilogram harvested earns 10 RWF, and many casual laborers earn up to 5,000 RWF per day, helping them cover daily needs at home.

Building Resilience, One Field at a Time 

The Nyawera cassava site is more than a farm—it is proof that climate-smart agriculture can change lives. Through drought resistant crops, job creation, and improved farming skills, KIIWP2 is supporting families who once depended on food aid to now grow their own food and earn steady income.

With productivity reaching 25.91 tonnes per hectare, the site is already showing strong results. As KIIWP2 continues to expand climate-smart practices across Kayonza, thousands of families are expected to gain the tools they need to face climate change with confidence.