Juncao tech transforms many lives in Rwanda

In Rwanda, Juncao technology, a Chinese innovation, is revolutionizing agriculture and transforming lives. Suzanne Nikuze, a resident of Kigali’s Gasabo district, exemplifies this transformation. What began as a backyard experiment has blossomed into a thriving agribusiness that empowers local farmers, particularly women, and promotes sustainable practices. After receiving training at the China-Rwanda Agriculture Technology Demonstration Center in 2018, Nikuze established an enterprise to teach mushroom cultivation, a lucrative and eco-friendly venture in East Africa. Her initiative has trained over 400 young people, with 80% of her employees being women, fostering self-reliance and economic independence. Juncao, a specially cultivated grass used to grow edible and medicinal mushrooms, offers a sustainable alternative to traditional wood-based methods. This fast-growing, cost-effective, and nutrient-rich grass has not only boosted agricultural yields but also reduced deforestation pressures. Since its introduction in 2006 through a bilateral agreement under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, Juncao technology has expanded nationwide, benefiting over 40,000 Rwandan farmers. The Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board, in collaboration with Chinese experts, has introduced 12 mushroom species and established training programs, including initiatives for primary school students. Beyond agriculture, Juncao is being repurposed to produce green charcoal, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional firewood, further supporting Rwanda’s sustainability goals. This innovative technology is a testament to the power of international collaboration in addressing poverty, promoting environmental conservation, and empowering communities.