In the bustling heart of Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, an active mushroom operation has been gaining considerable attention. The workshop hums with workers meticulously blending fungus grass powder, cottonseed hulls, and water in a mixing machine, while others operate the bagging machine with the same precision. This entire process is designed to create the ideal environment for cultivating mushrooms.
Leonidas Mushimiyimana, the proprietor of the workshop, shared the intricate process involving the sterilization of tubes at high temperatures, inoculation with strains in a sterile environment, and the patient wait for the mycelium to grow. His journey from university graduation to entrepreneurship has been fulfilled through the use of Juncao technology, which he learned after receiving training at the Fujian Agricultural and Forestry University in southeast China, thanks to the collaboration between the Rwandan and Chinese governments.
This breakthrough led to the establishment of his mushroom production venture, and within just two short years, the enterprise expanded, providing mushrooms to Kigali and even neighbouring countries such as Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Juncao technology, a hybrid grass developed through Chinese scientific research, is proving to be a game-changer for the agricultural industry in Rwanda. Referred to as the ‘happiness herb’ in Rwanda, Juncao is not limited to mushroom cultivation. Its leaves, stems, and roots are utilized in ecological treatments to combat soil erosion and desertification, while also providing fodder for livestock and poultry.
Since its inception in 2011, the China-Rwanda Agriculture Technology Demonstration Center has played a pivotal role in supporting over 50 enterprises and cooperatives involved in mushroom culture tubes in Rwanda. The center has also conducted 47 training courses, enlightening nearly 1,800 locals on Juncao technology.
Today, this remarkable agricultural technology benefits over 4,000 Rwandan farmers and has led to the creation of more than 30,000 jobs along the agricultural value chain.
Mushimiyimana attributes Chinese agricultural experts for their unwavering support throughout the stages of his business. With his workshop now employing 10 full-time workers and hiring temporary staff during peak seasons, the impact of Juncao technology is evident.
The affordability of the mushroom business is also noteworthy, with the cost being just 500 Rwandan francs (about 39 U.S. cents) per tube, allowing for significant profits. This accessibility makes it possible for even housewives to start a business with minimal investment, using their earnings to cover living expenses and their children’s education fees.
Another entrepreneur, Nyambo Obed, has further reiterated the positive impacts of Juncao technology. With over five years of experience in mushroom cultivation, Obed employs 11 workers across workshops in Southern and Eastern provinces and emphasizes the role of the industry in enhancing nutritional diversity and employment opportunities.
Having been to China for Juncao technology training, Obed’s dream to create a larger company that can employ more people was reaffirmed. His motivation came from visiting large enterprises in China, and he now truly believes in the potential of his endeavour.
The collaboration between China and Rwanda has undeniably brought about significant advancements in the agricultural sector, and with the continued usage and support of Juncao technology, the industry will only continue to evolve and flourish.