On Friday, 22 May 2026, the Transformational Leadership Center (TLC) welcomed Habanabakize Thomas, Coordinator from Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Rwanda, on a monitoring and learning visit to the Farmer Field Schools (FFS) operating across Mutete, Nyamiyaga, Rukomo, and Kageyo sectors in Gicumbi District.
The visit provided an opportunity to engage directly with farmers, assess the progress of project implementation, and gain first-hand insights into the impact of Conservation Agriculture (CA) on household livelihoods and community resilience. Through discussions with Farmer Field School members and practical field observations, the delegation explored both the achievements of the project and the challenges that remain.
During the interactions, farmers expressed their sincere appreciation to TLC for introducing the Farmer Field Schools and promoting Conservation Agriculture within their communities. They explained that the project has significantly improved their farming practices by equipping them with sustainable agricultural techniques that increase crop productivity while reducing production costs.
Many participants testified that adopting Conservation Agriculture practices—such as minimum soil disturbance, mulching, crop rotation, and improved soil management—has helped them achieve better harvests despite increasingly unpredictable weather conditions. The improved yields have contributed to greater household food security, increased incomes, and enhanced overall family well-being.
Beyond improved agricultural production, farmers also highlighted the positive role of Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) established alongside the project. Through regular savings and access to small loans, members have strengthened their financial resilience, invested in income-generating activities, met household needs, and supported one another during times of financial difficulty. The integration of VSLAs has reinforced the project’s goal of promoting both sustainable agriculture and economic empowerment.
While celebrating the progress made, farmers also openly discussed the challenges they continue to face. They emphasized the need for additional support to strengthen mulching practices, improve access to water storage tanks for kitchen gardens, and acquire livestock that can provide manure to enhance soil fertility. Participants also identified climate change as one of the greatest threats to agricultural productivity, noting that irregular rainfall patterns and prolonged dry spells continue to affect farming activities and crop performance.
The visit created a valuable platform for dialogue between farmers, TLC, and MCC Rwanda, allowing participants to exchange ideas, share lessons learned, and identify practical solutions that can further strengthen the project. The discussions reaffirmed the importance of farmer-led learning, continuous technical support, and climate-smart agricultural practices in building resilient farming communities.
At the conclusion of the visit, MCC Rwanda commended TLC for the effective organization and implementation of the Farmer Field Schools. The Coordinator expressed appreciation for the visible commitment of farmers, the quality of field activities, and the positive outcomes already being achieved through the project. MCC Rwanda encouraged TLC to continue delivering the initiative with the same dedication while working closely with communities to address emerging challenges and expand the impact of Conservation Agriculture.
The Transformational Leadership Center remains committed to empowering rural communities through sustainable agriculture, capacity building, and community-led development. By equipping farmers with practical knowledge, promoting environmental stewardship, and strengthening local financial systems, TLC continues to contribute to resilient households, improved livelihoods, and sustainable food systems across Gicumbi District.
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