Hailemariam arrived at the RAB headquarters in Rubona in Huye District, visiting activities including the Soil testing and plant pathology laboratories, Gene Bank, and the Banana Field Germplasm Conservation.
After visiting various research institutes at the RAB, he told reporters that he established that AGRA support towards the development of agriculture in Rwanda is effectively put to use and pledged continued cooperation.
"One of the countries we are working within Africa is Rwanda, sponsoring seed-breeding and generation and I am happy to say that Rwanda is making good progress. This is very good news," he said.
He further added that AGRA will continue to work with Rwanda on various agricultural development activities to ensure that it sustainably develops their livelihoods.
RAB Director General Dr. Karangwa Patrick said that AGRA has been a major contributor to the development of agriculture and animal husbandry in Rwanda and Africa where since 2008 they have been particularly helpful in empowering Rwandan researchers.
Dr. Karangwa said that from 2008 to present, seven Rwandan researchers have been assisted by AGRA to study and earn PhD, and some 17 have received a Master's Degree.
He added that AGRA has been supporting research activities in Rwanda where it has supported the research on maize seeds and other crops such as soybeans, Irish potatoes, sweet potatoes, among others.
Apart from AGRA's funding to the RAB, there are other supportive activities, such as capacity building for seed growers and farmers.
Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe has been in Rwanda for several days as he attended the International Conference on African Agricultural Development in Africa from 8 to 11 September 2020.
After the conference, Hailemariam visited various parts of Rwanda including the Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe National Park where he thanked Rwanda's efforts to take care of the biodiversity.
Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe, 55, served as the ninth Prime Minister of Ethiopia from 2012-2018 replacing Males Zenawi. He also previously served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2010-2012.
Under his leadership, the country made significant economic progress.
Elina Jonas Ruzindaza
