How quality seeds changed Leonie’s life

Published by:

FARM-D

Country:

Congo, The Democratic Republic Of The

Focus Region:

Sub-Saharan Africa

Focus Topic:

Agricultural Value Chains / Agri-Businesses

Website:

https://www.agriterra.org/impact-of-quality-seeds/

In the heart of the Beni district in DR Congo lies the village of Mangina, where Leonie Kahasa, a 48-year-old rice farmer, lives. As a dedicated member of COOMUSERIZ, Leonie’s story reflects the positive impact of agricultural support and partnerships on her life and the community.

Leonie’s journey began with a simple yet crucial need: quality rice seeds. Before joining COOMUSERIZ in 2014, she struggled with low income and productivity. She usually used a part of the harvest as seed. This use of inferior seeds resulted in a meagre average yield of 2MT/ha, limiting her annual income to a mere $1500.

In 2018, a partnership between Agriterra and Lofepaco breathed new life into COOMUSERIZ. This collaboration connected the cooperative with national services providing high-quality rice seeds. With Agriterra’s support, Leonie gained knowledge of post-harvest techniques, significantly enhancing the quality of the rice produced.

Improved income

The impact of these changes is evident in the fields. Leonie’s productivity soared to 3MT/ha, and her annual income from rice alone reached $4000.
This economic improvement empowered her to invest in agricultural machinery for palm oil transformation. The transformation didn’t stop at her farm; other farmers in COOMUSERIZ experienced similar positive changes.

Leonie’s ambitions extend beyond rice. With a keen interest in maize agriculture, she aspires to invest in the transformation of maize. Her success story serves as inspiration, for her fellow farmers and the entire village.