On July 6, 2023, the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) partnered with One Acre Fund, Rwanda Chapter, to launch a lime adoption campaign in Gicumbi District, specifically in the Miyove sector of the Northern Province of Rwanda. The campaign aims to educate and mobilize farmers and farmer promoters in combatting soil acidity and improving productivity through the application of lime.

Dr. Vicky Ruganzu, a principal research fellow at RAB specializing in integrated soil fertility management, provided valuable insights on effective agricultural practices related to lime utilization for enhanced crop yields. He also encouraged farmers to incorporate lime into their cultivation practices, emphasizing that the government has subsidized its availability to make it more accessible to farmers.

During the campaign event, participating farmers actively engaged in discussions and answered questions about lime adoption. Exceptional performers were rewarded with a T-shirt and a lime, highlighting their commitment to the initiative.

The event concluded with Mrs. Parfaite Uwera, the Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Development in Gicumbi District, delivering a closing address as the guest of honor. Mrs. Uwera urged farmers to embrace lime adoption as a solution to combat soil acidity, improve productivity, and ensure food security within their households.

The Government of Rwanda is committed to supporting farmers in accessing lime through a subsidy program that aims to address the total area in need of lime application. In the 2020/2021 fiscal year, approximately Rwf1.6 billion was allocated specifically for lime. This funding was designated to purchase 20,500 tonnes of lime, which can be effectively utilized on 8,200 hectares of land.

Lime, locally known as Ishwagara, is a valuable agricultural input that consists of calcium or calcium-magnesium compounds. Its primary function is to counteract the detrimental effects of acidic soil by neutralizing soil acidity and raising the pH level. Acidic soil adversely affects crop growth by impeding nutrient uptake, resulting in nutrient deficiencies and reduced agricultural productivity.

Through the government's lime subsidy program, farmers are provided with increased access to this essential resource. By applying lime, farmers can effectively manage soil acidity, thereby enhancing the availability of nutrients for crops. This contributes to improved plant growth, higher yields, and more sustainable agricultural practices.

The government's allocation of substantial funds for lime subsidies reflects its commitment to supporting farmers and promoting agricultural development. By facilitating access to lime, the government aims to address soil acidity challenges, mitigate nutrient deficiencies, and enhance the overall productivity of Rwanda's agricultural sector.