In the heart of Rwanda’s Eastern Province, a fiery transformation is taking root. Gashora Farm PLC, nestled in Nyagatare district, has become a beacon of agricultural innovation and international cooperation, turning the chili pepper into a symbol of economic empowerment and cross-continental partnership.
The journey began in 2018 when Gashora Farm’s Managing Director, Dieudonne Twahirwa, attended the China International Import Expo in Shanghai. Recognizing a burgeoning demand for Rwandan dried chili in the Chinese market, Twahirwa’s vision gained momentum. By 2024, this vision materialized into a strategic partnership with Hunan Modern Agriculture International Development Co. Ltd (HAIC), a subsidiary of Hunan Cereals, Oils & Foodstuffs Import & Export Group (Hunan COF).
This collaboration birthed the Rwanda-Hunan Chili Pepper Industry Demonstration Project, encompassing 100 hectares under a contract farming model. The initiative spans the entire value chain, from seedling cultivation to export culminating in the shipment of 200 tons of dried chili to China in its inaugural season.
“The Chinese market offers more than orders. It brings stability and investment,” Twahirwa remarked, highlighting the project’s role in providing consistent demand and financial backing.
Beyond exports, the project has significantly impacted local communities. Employing 15 permanent staff and up to 1,000 seasonal workers during harvest, it has become a vital source of income.
Agronomist Aloys Ngambwa emphasized the adoption of modern agricultural techniques, including centralized seedling nurseries and advanced pest control methods, enhancing resilience against climate change and irrigation challenges.
The fruits of this labor have found their way into Chinese cities like Qingdao, Chengdu, and Changsha, gaining popularity in wholesale markets. Notably, HAIC’s “Mo La Ge” chili sauce, crafted from Rwandan peppers, sold out rapidly at a China-Africa shopping festival, and Rwandan chilies have been embraced by Chengdu’s hot-pot seasoning companies, signifying deeper integration into China’s culinary landscape.
Looking ahead, the upcoming 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo in Changsha, scheduled for June 12-15, aims to showcase similar success stories and foster new partnerships between African and Chinese stakeholders.
As the “red gold” of Rwandan chili peppers continues to spice up global markets, this initiative stands as a testament to the power of international collaboration in driving sustainable development and economic growth across continents.
