Ripple Effect Rwanda's three-year Ongera Amata ("Increase the milk") project launches this week, working with 4,800 dairy farmers in the Gatsibo and Nyagatare districts of Eastern Province to increase the quality and quantity of dairy production.
This life-changing work is made possible by a funding grant from Jersey Overseas Aid (JOA), working through its partner the Royal Jersey Agricultural and Horticultural Society (RJAHS).
The causes of lower than average yields for these farmers include limited knowledge of improved dairy farming practices, low-productivity cow genetics and poor supplementary feeding and nutrition - all of which will be addressed by this project.
JOA and RJHAS funding for the project
The people of Jersey have a strong connection with countries where cows have a vital role in improving the health and nutrition of families, and also provide an essential source of income and can drive economic development.
JOA have been supporting the work of Ripple Effect (then Send a Cow) in Rwanda since 2017, through its Dairy for Development programme. Two initial projects have been successfully completed, and the Inka Nziza Zikamwa ("Good Cow's Milk") project comes to an end in June 2024.
Why is this project needed?
Ongera Amata is targeting small and medium-size (SME) dairy producers who have the potential to expand production and improve their performance, and smallholder farmers who could expand their dairy herds.
The project will also build dairy farmers’ resilience to the effects of climate shocks which are being seen all around the world, but most acutely in countries where incomes are lowest, and livelihoods and families' daily food is dependent on rain-fed agriculture.
The project work will tackle the impact of unpredictable seasons, extended drought periods and also flooding through the promotion of climate smart agricultural techniques, improving soil quality, and agroforestry.
Project funding was agreed in December 2023, initial project site selection and validation has been completed and the registration of participants is underway.
The next steps will be to conduct a baseline survey to establish the current status of project participants, for evidence-based tracking of the project's impact.
Working effectively in a development partnership
The design of this project exemplifies effective development collaboration.
The RJAHS is supporting the project with overall supervision and genetic improvement.
Ripple Effect will be improving practical animal management knowledge and skills to increase milk production, while ensuring the project follows the principles of our Agroecological Climate Positive Approach (ACPA).
As environment partner the International Centre for Research on Agroforestry (ICRAF / World Agroforestry) will build capacity to ensure the provision of improved drought-resistant fodder and agroforestry tree species.
The Dairy Group UK will provide technical assistance to Ripple Effect in improving milk quality outcomes.
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