Rwanda’s government has recently banned unprocessed milk export in order to improve the performance of this sub-sector, The NewTimes reports. The ban affects mainly four districts of the Western Province which are namely Rubavu, Rutsiro, Nyabihu and Ngororero whose collection, transport and sales methods do no respect to the standards set by the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI).

According to Geraldine Mukeshimana (picture), the minister of agriculture and animal resources, the milk from now on will be exported only after being processed by accredited entities.

Besides, the official indicates, farmers will export their produce to collection centres for ulterior delivery to processing factories and must have a service card in addition to a transport license which they must both get from the Ministry.  

The milk industry is key to Rwanda’s economy. It contributes to about 15% of its agricultural GDP and 6% to the national GDP, according to MINAGRI’s data. The country produces nearly 445 million L of fresh milk every year.

Espoir Olodo