In October and November 2023, EPRN Rwanda collaborated with AGRITERRA to assess the current regulatory environment of cooperatives and Farmers’ Organisations in Rwanda for an effective lobby and advocacy trajectory development

Rwanda’s agricultural sector plays a pivotal role in the country’s economy, employing most of the population and contributing significantly to its GDP (MINAGRI, 2018). Cooperatives and farmers’ organizations are essential in supporting and organizing smallholder farmers, ensuring fair market access, and improving livelihoods (MINICOM, 2018). Understanding the regulatory environment that governs these entities is crucial for enhancing their effectiveness and advocating for favourable policies. Cooperatives and farmers’ organizations play a pivotal role in the socio-economic development of Rwanda, a country characterized by a predominantly agrarian economy (MINICOM, 2013). These collective entities have emerged as essential vehicles for empowering smallholder farmers, improving agricultural productivity, and fostering rural development (MINAGRI, 2018). To enhance the effectiveness of these organizations and support the interests of the agricultural community, it is essential to evaluate the current regulatory environment governing cooperatives and farmers’ organizations in Rwanda. This assessment serves as the cornerstone for developing a robust and strategic advocacy and lobbying trajectory aimed at advancing the interests of these stakeholders.

The assessment focused on the regulatory framework and its impact on cooperatives and farmers’ organizations in Rwanda. The assessment was conducted through a mixed-method approach, involving both qualitative and quantitative research methods. In addition to desk review of relevant regulations, EPRN collected primary data from 54 cooperatives from the following value chains : maize, rice, coffee, Irish potato and dairy.

EPRN provided to AGRITERRA and partners recommendations to help harmonising the regulatory environment of cooperatives and Farmers’ Organisations in Rwanda.