April 24, 2019

Why Rwanda Loves Tanzanian Rice Despite High Cost


Trustworthy and indepth news stories are more important now than ever.
Support our newsroom by MAKING A CONTRIBUTION HERE
A woman working at her rice field in Bugarama marshlands in Rusizi district – the region producing more than others in Rwanda.

A 25kg of rice from Tanzania costs up to Rwf 28,000 in Kigali, far more expensive compared to the other types of rice. But importers and retail traders are making big business from the Tanzanian imports.

In Rwanda, consumers are buying rice from three categories of sources; either grown locally, imported from Tanzania or imported from other locations like Thailand and Pakistan.

Rice grown locally is the cheapest on the market – a 25kg bag going for between Rwf 14,000-20,000. Rice from Thailand is selling at Rwf 24,000, whereas imports from Pakistan are selling at Rwf 19,000. These prices vary depending on which part of Rwanda.

What is clear is that imports from Tanzania are dominating the market; for an unusual reason – they are loved by consumers, and therefore more and more is imported.

Here, Tanzanian rice is simply called “Mtanzaniya” or “Super”. You simply pronounce any of these words, and every shopkeeper knows exactly what you need.

Wholesalers who spoke to The Chronicles confirmed that their stock of rice from Tanzania was being consumed much faster than other imports.

In Rwanda, there are 36 varieties of rice cultivated in large quantities. Scientists told us that 7 of the local varieties are short grain and 29 are long grain varieties.

Bisimati, a rice variety that has been grown locally for many years, especially in Rusizi district, is one of the best rice varieties appreciated by Rwandans. The others are Rumbuka and Buryohe. But some are expensive – going for as high as 20,000 par 25kg bag.

In a vast majority of homes in rural Rwanda, small restaurants and schools, the most-sought after type of local rice is called KIGOLI, only because it is the cheapest rice on the market. A 25ky bag goes for as low as Rwf 14,000.

Cutting taxes to keep imports coming

One of the brands of Tanzanian rices on Rwandan shelves

According data from the National Institute of Statistics, production of rice in Rwanda grew from 83,338 metric tons in 2017, up to 113,880 last year.

Nearly every marshland running through some of Rwandan’s many small hills, there is a rice field – from Kigali, to east, down to south – and on a much more large scale in south west. The only region where no rice is grown is the north, due in part to the cold climate, but also that it already is a source of other food crops, which make it the country’s breadbasket.

The government’s National Rice Development Strategy has identified an additional catchment area of 2,700km2 that gets annual rainfall of 1,500mm with 5,572 hectares of marshland in the Nyabarongo River being suitable for rice cultivation.

The ministry of agriculture announced in 2017 that it planned to develop another 7,000 hectares of marshlands across the country and an additional 23,000 hectares of hillside for rice cultivation.

Rice was introduced in Rwanda in 1960s through missions mainly from Taiwan and South Korea, with some arriving from China but on a small scales. Mass production only picked up in the last 15 years as government desperately fought to diversify food production, as well as provide employment in rural Rwanda.

There is a long list of companies and cooperatives involved in rice production including ICM Rwanda, NAVR Ltd, Dukorerehamwe Company Ltd, COTICORIZ, Nyagatare Rice Co, and Alfa Supply Food Company Ltd – which are considered the biggest players.

Despite the increased local production, the country cannot lock out imports. There has been a steady rise. Rwanda imported $37 million worth of rice in 2015, which had actually gone up from $31.1 million in 2014.

The rice strategy says if planned marshlands are cultivated, the import purse could begin to slow down to the utmost minimum, as part of the general strategy to wean the country off imports of everything.

In the 2017/18 budget read in June 2017, Finance Minister at the time, Claver Gatete, announced tax cuts on imported wheat, rice and sugar in a bid to mitigate the short supply.

The current Finance Minister Dr. Uzziel Ndagijimana did not make changes in his budget in June last year.

Rice will continue to be taxed at the rate of 45% or US$ 345 par metric ton instead of 75% or US$ 345 par metric ton, says an analysis by PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers), the global professional services provider.

Rwanda is trying to grow ‘Mtanzaniya’ rice

Rice is one of those imports. Ministry of Trade and Industry (MINICOM) data availed to The Chronicles shows that imported rice from Tanzania last year in 2018 was 15,895 metric tons, whereas the total rice imported in 2018 is 72,767 metric tons of different varieties.

Rice from Tanzania covered 21.9% of total imports, essentially leaving the other countries including regional neighbours and big Asian rice producers to share the rest of the import package.

There is massive rice production in Rwanda, but imports are necessary due to high demand

Tanzanian “Super Rice” or Umutanzaniya or Mtanzaniya, is described as delicious and having a good smell – when both raw and cooked. It is also said to expand when being cooked – making a kilo feed more people, than other varieties.

And local scientists have been working on bringing the variety to Rwanda. They have faced tough challenge because of Rwanda’s climate which does not support the Tanzanian varieties, according to Dr Innocent Ndikumana, a senior specialist at Rwanda Agricultural Board (RAB).

‘Umutanzaniya’ is also tall in height and has inadequate adaptability to local diseases, said Dr Ndikumana, adding: “Not only is Umutanzaniya too long, it also falls down after it has fully grown.”

Tanzanian varieties grow to about a meter high, far above other varieties.

Tanzanian varieties were tested in Bugarama marshland, in Rusizi district – bordering DR Congo. The process has been ongoing since 2016.

“We found it has inadequate adaptability to local diseases which are different from the situation in Tanzania and now we are improving it to adapt to the climate of Rwanda. It is a process that takes between three and five years,” noted Dr Ndikumana.

We can't do quality journalism without your support

Perhaps it goes without saying — but producing quality journalism isn't cheap. At a time when newsroom resources and revenue are declining, The Chronicles remains committed to "Serving Your Right To Know The Truth". Stand with us as we document Rwanda's remarkable journey for you and the future generation. Do you value our journalism? We can't do it without you. Show us with your support by CONTRIBUTING HERE.
Email your news TIPS to info@chronicles.rw or WhatsApp +250788351327.
You can also find us on Signal

375 Comments

  1. Someone essentially assist to make critically posts I’d state.

    This is the first time I frequented your website page and
    so far? I surprised with the research you made to create this actual submit incredible.
    Excellent process!

  2. Hey there, You’ve done an excellent job. I will certainly digg it and personally recommend to my friends.
    I am sure they will be benefited from this site.

  3. We are a group of volunteers and starting a new scheme in our community.
    Your web site provided us with valuable information to
    work on. You’ve done a formidable job and our entire community
    will be grateful to you.

  4. Hey fantastic website! Does running a blog such as this take
    a lot of work? I have no knowledge of coding
    however I was hoping to start my own blog in the near future.
    Anyway, should you have any recommendations or techniques for new blog owners please share.
    I understand this is off subject however I simply wanted to ask.
    Cheers!

  5. Thanks for some other excellent article. The place else may anybody get that kind of information in such a perfect
    method of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I am at the look
    for such information.

  6. hello!,I love your writing so much! share we communicate more about your post on AOL?
    I require an expert on this house to solve my problem. May be
    that is you! Looking forward to peer you.

  7. Please let me know if you’re looking for a article writer for your site.
    You have some really good posts and I believe I would be a good asset.
    If you ever want to take some of the load
    off, I’d absolutely love to write some content for your blog in exchange for a link back to mine.
    Please send me an email if interested. Kudos!

    Here is my web-site; christian mingle dating site

  8. Greetings from Los angeles! I’m bored at work soo I decided to browse your blog on my iphone during lunch break.
    I love the information you present here and can’t wait to take a look when I get home.
    I’m surprised at how fast your blog loaded on my cell pnone ..
    I’m not even using WIFI, just 3G .. Anyhow, wonderful blog!

    My web blog; Local girls Online

  9. Thanks for your strategies. One thing we’ve noticed is the fact that banks and also financial institutions understand the spending habits of consumers and understand that most people max out and about their cards around the vacations. They sensibly take advantage of that fact and start flooding a person’s inbox along with snail-mail box using hundreds of no interest APR card offers shortly when the holiday season closes. Knowing that if you’re like 98 in the American public, you’ll jump at the possiblity to consolidate consumer credit card debt and switch balances for 0 interest rate credit cards.

  10. Admirinng the hard work you put into your site and in depth information you offer.
    It’s great to ome across a blog every once in a while
    that isn’t the same out of date rehashed material.

    Great read! I’ve savbed your site and I’m including your RSS feeds to my
    Google account.

    Here is my website :: just single christians

  11. I am not sure where you’re getting your information, but greattopic. I needs to spend some time learning more or understanding more.Thanks for wonderful info I was looking for this info for my mission.

  12. Howdy! Do you know if they make any plugins to help with SEO?I’m trying to get my blog to rank for some targeted keywordsbut I’m not seeing very good results. If you know of any please share.Cheers!

  13. Lego sets never cease to amaze me. They can take us into a whole new world.
    Each Lego set is so detailed, it’s like we’re actually living in the bricks.
    unique lego set for enthusiasts
    As a Lego fan for my entire life, I would have never imagined that a Lego set could bring to life the magic of Mickey Mouse’s
    universe. Kudos, designers! You’ve captured the essence behind these beloved Disney characters.
    The Taj Mahal LEGO kit is a true masterpiece – an architecture lover will adore it!

  14. The real estate development area is one that continues to prosper, no matter financial problems. Given that the demand for new real estate and facilities seldom subsides, therefore, there is always the need for brand-new residential or commercial properties to be developed. This suggests that developers never ever need to stress over being out of work, http://cryptomonnaies.me/user/cirrusfang1.

  15. Great weblog right here! Also your website rather a lot up fast!

    What host are you using? Can I am getting your affiliate hyperlink on your host?
    I wish my site loaded up as fast as yours lol

  16. Hello terrific website! Does running a blog like this take a great deal of
    work? I’ve virtually no expertise in programming however I was hoping to start
    my own blog in the near future. Anyhow, if you have any recommendations or tips for new blog owners please share.
    I know this is off subject but I simply needed to ask.
    Thanks a lot!

  17. Thanks , I’ve recently been searching for info about this
    topic for ages and yours is the best I have discovered so far.

    But, what concerning the conclusion? Are you certain in regards to the supply?

  18. Grеat post. Ӏ ᴡɑs checking constantly this blog and
    I am impressed! Vеry helpful information ѕpecifically the closing part :
    ) I handle sucһ info a ⅼot. Ӏ used to be ⅼooking foг this
    particular info foг a long timе. Thanks and good luck.

    Feel free t᧐ surf tо my web blog: wall stickers

  19. Excellent pieces. Keep posting such kind of info on your blog.
    Im really impressed by it.
    Hi there, You’ve done a great job. I’ll definitely digg it and personally recommend to my friends.
    I am confident they’ll be benefited from this website.

  20. Hello there, I discovered your website by way of Google while looking for a related
    topic, your site got here up, it seems to be great. I have bookmarked it in my google bookmarks.

    Hello there, just turned into alert to your blog via Google, and located that it’s really informative.
    I am gonna be careful for brussels. I’ll appreciate should you continue this in future.
    A lot of other folks will probably be benefited from your writing.
    Cheers!

  21. I like the valuable information you provide in your articles.
    I’ll bookmark your blog and check again here frequently.
    I’m quite sure I will learn many new stuff right here!
    Good luck for the next!

  22. Aw, this was an exceptionally good post. Finding the time and actual effortto create a great article… but what can I say…I hesitate a whole lot and never manage to get anything done.

  23. Hello There. I found your blog the usage of msn. This is
    a very well written article. I’ll make sure to bookmark it and come back to read extra of your useful information. Thank you for the post.
    I will definitely return.

  24. When I originally commented I clicked the “Notify me when new comments are added” checkbox
    and now each time a comment is added I get four e-mails with the same comment.
    Is there any way you can remove me from that service? Cheers!

  25. ❄️ Ready to step up your business game? Check out Olitun at https://olitun.com! We specialize in cool AI solutions, from killer chatbots to
    automating social media on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn. Let Olitun guide
    you to a future where success is a breeze and endless possibilities await.
    Boost your biz with cutting-edge AI tech at olitun.com!
    ❄️ #FutureReady #AISuccess

  26. Nice post. I was checking continuously this blog and I am impressed!Extremely useful information specially the final section 🙂 I care for such information a lot.I was seeking this particular info for a long time.Thanks and good luck.

  27. Pretty section of content. I just stumbled upon your web site and in accession capital
    to assert that I acquire in fact enjoyed account your blog posts.
    Anyway I’ll be subscribing to your augment and
    even I achievement you access consistently quickly.

  28. Hey would you mind stating which blog platform you’re working with?
    I’m planning to start my own blog soon but I’m having a hard time deciding between BlogEngine/Wordpress/B2evolution and Drupal.

    The reason I ask is because your design and style seems different then most
    blogs and I’m looking for something unique.
    P.S Apologies for being off-topic but I had to ask!

  29. Thank you, I’ve recently been searching for information about this subject for ages and yours is the best I have came upon so far.
    However, what in regards to the bottom line? Are you certain concerning the supply?

  30. Wow that was unusual. I just wrote an incredibly long comment
    but after I clicked submit my comment didn’t appear.
    Grrrr… well I’m not writing all that over again. Anyways, just wanted to say
    great blog!

  31. Boostaro increases blood flow to the reproductive organs, leading to stronger and more vibrant erections. It provides a powerful boost that can make you feel like you’ve unlocked the secret to firm erections

  32. With its all-natural ingredients and impressive results, Aizen Power supplement is quickly becoming a popular choice for anyone looking for an effective solution for improve sexual health with this revolutionary treatment.

  33. The Quietum Plus supplement promotes healthy ears, enables clearer hearing, and combats tinnitus by utilizing only the purest natural ingredients. Supplements are widely used for various reasons, including boosting energy, lowering blood pressure, and boosting metabolism.

  34. TerraCalm is an antifungal mineral clay that may support the health of your toenails. It is for those who struggle with brittle, weak, and discoloured nails. It has a unique blend of natural ingredients that may work to nourish and strengthen your toenails.

  35. Neurodrine is a fantastic dietary supplement that protects your mind and improves memory performance. It can help you improve your focus and concentration.

  36. Introducing FlowForce Max, a solution designed with a single purpose: to provide men with an affordable and safe way to address BPH and other prostate concerns. Unlike many costly supplements or those with risky stimulants, we’ve crafted FlowForce Max with your well-being in mind. Don’t compromise your health or budget – choose FlowForce Max for effective prostate support today!

  37. Nervogen Pro, A Cutting-Edge Supplement Dedicated To Enhancing Nerve Health And Providing Natural Relief From Discomfort. Our Mission Is To Empower You To Lead A Life Free From The Limitations Of Nerve-Related Challenges. With A Focus On Premium Ingredients And Scientific Expertise.

  38. SynoGut is an all-natural dietary supplement that is designed to support the health of your digestive system, keeping you energized and active.

  39. SightCare clears out inflammation and nourishes the eye and brain cells, improving communication between both organs. Consequently, you should expect to see results in as little as six months if you combine this with other healthy habits.

  40. Sight Care is a daily supplement proven in clinical trials and conclusive science to improve vision by nourishing the body from within. The SightCare formula claims to reverse issues in eyesight, and every ingredient is completely natural.

  41. Sight Care is a daily supplement proven in clinical trials and conclusive science to improve vision by nourishing the body from within. The SightCare formula claims to reverse issues in eyesight, and every ingredient is completely natural.

  42. Kerassentials are natural skin care products with ingredients such as vitamins and plants that help support good health and prevent the appearance of aging skin. They’re also 100% natural and safe to use. The manufacturer states that the product has no negative side effects and is safe to take on a daily basis. Kerassentials is a convenient, easy-to-use formula. https://kerassentialsbuynow.us/

  43. Gut Vita™ is a daily supplement that helps consumers to improve the balance in their gut microbiome, which supports the health of their immune system. It supports healthy digestion, even for consumers who have maintained an unhealthy diet for a long time. https://gutvitabuynow.us/

  44. Red Boost is a male-specific natural dietary supplement. Nitric oxide is naturally increased by it, which enhances blood circulation all throughout the body. This may improve your general well-being. Red Boost is an excellent option if you’re trying to assist your circulatory system. https://redboostbuynow.us/

  45. Puravive introduced an innovative approach to weight loss and management that set it apart from other supplements. It enhances the production and storage of brown fat in the body, a stark contrast to the unhealthy white fat that contributes to obesity. https://puravivebuynow.us/

  46. I enjoyed reading your article! The information is presented effectively. Adding more visuals in your next articles could make the content more engaging for readers like me.

  47. Howdy! This post could not be written any better!
    Looking through this post reminds me of my previous roommate!
    He always kept preaching about this. I’ll forward this information to him.
    Pretty sure he’s going to have a good read.
    Many thanks for sharing!

  48. Excellent blog you’ve got here.. Itís hard to find good quality writing like yours nowadays. I truly appreciate individuals like you! Take care!!

  49. Блог https://citatystatusy.blogspot.com/ представляет собой ресурсом, посвященным мотивирующим цитатам и статусам. На сайте представлены цитаты, целью которых является обогащение жизненного опыта через фразы для размышления. Этот ресурс акцентирует внимание на важность позитивного восприятия жизни, помогая найти счастье в мелочах.

    Не забудьте страницу на блог в закладки: https://citatystatusy.blogspot.com/

  50. Блог https://akpp-korobka.blogspot.com/ посвящен ключевым аспектам обслуживания и ремонта автоматических коробок передач (АКПП) в транспортных средствах. Он подчеркивает важность АКПП в гарантии эффективной передачи мощности от двигателя к колесам, что влияет в надежности автомобиля. Ресурс обсуждает значение профессионального подхода к диагностике АКПП для определения проблем, способствующего экономии время и деньги. Также затрагиваются основные аспекты технического обслуживания АКПП, с упором на замену масла, диагностику утечек и замену фильтров, для обеспечения оптимальной работы трансмиссионной системы. Для получения дополнительной информации посетите блог по адресу https://akpp-korobka.blogspot.com/.

  51. Романтические квесты и тесты для пар: Создайте новые страницы в вашей любви (https://testy-pro-lyubov-i-semyu.blogspot.com/2023/12/blog-post.html) – это веселые квизы, созданные с целью приносить радость и развлечение. Они предлагают участникам разные вопросы и задачи, которые часто относятся к увлекательным темам, личными предпочтениями или забавными ситуациями. Основная цель таких тестов – предоставить участнику возможность получить удовольствие, проверить свои знания и умения или познакомиться с новой информацией о себе или окружающем мире. Развлекательные тесты широко популярны в онлайн-среде и социальных медиа, где они стали признанными формами интерактивного развлечения и обмена контентом.
    Не забудьте добавить наш сайт в закладки: https://testy-pro-lyubov-i-semyu.blogspot.com/2023/12/blog-post.html

  52. Увлекательные викторины для обучения и развития: Погрузитесь в мир знаний (https://obrazovatelnye-testy.blogspot.com/2023/12/blog-post.html) – это познавательные квизы, созданные с целью обогащения знаний и развития умений. Они презентуют студентам разнообразные вопросы и задания, которые связаны с важными образовательными темами. Основная миссия таких квизов – обеспечить студентам способ развлечься и одновременно учиться, оценить свои академические навыки и узнать что-то новое в учебных предметах. Образовательные тесты быстро завоевали признание в среде онлайн-образования и среди учебных сообществ, где они применяются как современные методы обучения и обмена знаниями.

    Не забудьте добавить наш сайт в закладки для доступа к образовательным тестам: https://obrazovatelnye-testy.blogspot.com/2023/12/blog-post.html

  53. Fine way of describing, and good piece of writing to take information regarding my presentation topic, which i am going to
    deliver in institution of higher education.

  54. Prostadine helps clear out inflammation in the prostate.Prostadine claims the root cause of most prostate issues is due to the accumulation of toxic mineral buildup due to hard water. When unchecked, this toxic buildup leads to inflammation in the prostate and the rest of your urinary tract. This impairs your ability to urinate, ejaculate, and produce hormones needed for your overall health.

  55. I’m really enjoying the design and layout of your blog. It’s a very easy on the eyes which makes it much more pleasant for me to come here and visit more often. Did you hire out a designer to create your theme? Great work!

  56. hi!,I love your writing so much! proportion we keep
    up a correspondence more about your post on AOL? I require a specialist in this space
    to unravel my problem. May be that is you! Taking a look ahead to look you.

  57. EnchagPT Blog to miejsce, gdzie można znaleźć interesujące artykuły i informacje
    na temat technologii sztucznej inteligencji. Jest to blog dedykowany wszystkim entuzjastom sztucznej inteligencji, którzy pragną zgłębiać swoją wiedzę na temat tego fascynującego tematu.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *