Netafim's Gabiro Project: Transforming Agriculture in Africa
From its inception almost 60 years ago, Netafim was committed to supporting smallholders by providing them with the tools to become sustainable. This led us to collaborate with governments, global organizations, and local partners to implement farming projects that strengthen local communities and alleviate poverty throughout the world; in India, Central America, Asia and Africa. Our recent project in Rwanda, the Gabiro Project is a shining example of what can be achieved when diverse stakeholders come together with a shared vision – to transform lives and landscapes through sustainable agriculture. Michael Bruderli, Head of Business Development at Netafim and the Gabiro Project manager, delves into the journey of Gabiro, from inception to its remarkable impact on the local community and beyond.
What is the Gabiro Project?
The Gabiro Agribusiness Hub is a unique and holistic farming project that aims to provide farmers with ready-to-farm land with full access to bulk water infrastructure, and electricity. The project is a joint venture between Netafim, Orbia’s Precision Agriculture Business, and the Rwandan Government with private funding from local & global investors.
The project successfully enhances private sector investments in Rwanda’s agricultural sector, mitigates the risks of climate change and food security, contributes to job creation, increases export of value-added products, and powers rural community development and livelihood.
Sounds amazing? It is, but the journey to success was anything but easy…
A Visionary Beginning
The Gabiro Project didn't emerge overnight, and neither did my involvement with it. My work in the banking and investment sector in Switzerland brought me to South Africa 16 years ago. When Elad Levy, Netafim’s former Head of Africa and the Middle East, was about to sign on to this project in Rwanda and looked for the right person to implement the project, it felt like a once-in-a life time opportunity to get involved with an initiative that will have a real impact on people lives in Africa.
Win-Win-Win!
Today, four years later, I look back with immense pride at everything we have accomplished with this project. The robust water infrastructure comprises 20 km of open concrete canals, 48 km of pipes, and 7 pumping stations, facilitating direct water delivery from the Akagera River to the Gabiro Hub. This infrastructure enables 100% land utilization of the 5600 hectares in Phase 1, leading to higher yields while conserving 30-60% of water.