The Imbereheza Musha Cooperative's story is one of determination and strategic planning, transforming a dream into a thriving reality.
It all began in August 2024, when the cooperative received startup funds from Women for Women Rwanda after a successful business plan competition. This initial funding was the catalyst that set their journey in motion.
By October, the members were ready to put their plan into action, focusing on crops that were in high demand: French beans and Irish potatoes. They made a strategic investment of 1,050,000 RWFn in essential resources such as French bean seeds, fertilizers, and Irish potato seeds, demonstrating their commitment to maximizing their potential right from the start.
The results of their hard work have been truly promising. The cooperative anticipates harvesting 3.5 tons of Irish potatoes per hectare, projecting an income of 1,050,000 RWF per season. Their French bean cultivation is also proving to be incredibly fruitful. They are expecting 2.5 tons from their first harvest, valued at 750,000 RWF, and an impressive 4 tons from the second harvest, estimated at 1,200,000 RWF. In total, the Imbereheza Musha Cooperative aims to generate an astounding 3,000,000 RWF from these crops alone, showcasing a remarkable return on their initial investment and a testament to their success.
Looking forward, the cooperative members are committed to reinvesting in French beans and Irish potatoes, driven by the high market demand. They also have plans to expand into potato seed multiplication, recognizing the potential of providing other farmers with quality seeds. Furthermore, they are exploring opportunities to export their produce, aiming to reach a wider market and increase their revenue. These future plans illustrate that the cooperative is not just growing crops; they are cultivating a sustainable and prosperous business for the long term.
According to Claudette, the cooperative's chair, the support from Women for Women Rwanda has had a significant impact on the lives of its members, empowering them to build a stable and prosperous future through agriculture. The story of the Imbereheza Musha Cooperative is more than just about farming success; it's about how a community, with the right support and a clear vision, can come together to achieve economic stability and growth.