UGAMA Concludes Kwihaza Capacity-Building Series
UGAMA Concludes Nationwide Capacity-Building Series Strengthening 60 Cooperatives Across Rwanda
UGAMA has successfully concluded a comprehensive series of training and coaching sessions aimed at strengthening the capacity, professionalism, and resilience of aquaculture and horticulture cooperatives under the Kwihaza Project. The nationwide activities reached 60 cooperatives across 25 districts of Rwanda, marking a significant milestone in promoting inclusive economic growth, improved agribusiness performance, and environmental sustainability within the cooperative sector.
The interventions focused on three strategic areas: entrepreneurship development using the Business Model Canvas (BMC), technical assistance on improved agricultural harvesting and post-harvest management, and training on environmental management and climate change adaptation. Through the BMC approach, cooperative leaders and managers strengthened their entrepreneurial mindset, clarified their value propositions, analyzed cost and revenue structures, and identified strategic growth opportunities. This process enabled cooperatives to better structure their operations and enhance their readiness for market expansion and financial partnerships.
The technical assistance component provided hands-on support to establish practical mechanisms for improved harvesting, post-harvest handling, pricing, and transportation of agricultural produce. By introducing structured collective marketing systems and quality management practices, cooperatives are now better equipped to reduce post-harvest losses, improve product consistency, and strengthen their bargaining power in local and regional markets.
The environmental management and climate change training reinforced sustainable land use, water resource management, biodiversity conservation, and climate-smart production practices. Cooperatives developed tailored action plans integrating environmental considerations into their governance and operational frameworks, contributing to long-term resource protection and resilience to climate-related risks.
The methodology adopted throughout the series was highly participatory and results-oriented. Sessions combined interactive presentations, group discussions, practical exercises, case studies, and on-site coaching tailored to each cooperative’s context. This approach ensured that learning was not only theoretical but directly applicable to real operational challenges. Continuous coaching and follow-up discussions further supported cooperatives in translating knowledge into actionable strategies.
The conclusion of this nationwide capacity-building effort represents an important step toward building stronger, more competitive, and environmentally responsible cooperatives in Rwanda. UGAMA remains committed to accompanying these cooperatives beyond the training phase to ensure sustained implementation, improved livelihoods for members, and lasting impact at community level.