Havugarurema Darius is a model farmer living in Huye Sector, Huye District, who has specialized in fruit farming on a land area of more than five hectares and 20 ares. He grows passion fruits, tree tomatoes and avocados, an activity that has transformed his life and significantly contributed to the socio-economic development of the surrounding community.
Darius says that before engaging in agriculture, He used to do various jobs that earned him little income, which did not match his life ambitions. This pushed him to invest in fruit farming, a sector he saw as having strong future potential.
He explains that the idea of fruit farming came to his mind when he went to the market to buy fruits for his children and found them extremely expensive.
He says:“I went to buy fruits and found that one kilogram of tree tomatoes was selling at two thousand Rwandan francs. I felt that was too expensive, and when I got home, I decided that instead of buying them, I should invest in growing them myself.”
He started on a small piece of land, but as profits increased, he gradually acquired more land until he reached the current size of more than five hectares. Darius practices fruit farming on land that was previously covered by forest. “After realizing that the forest was not giving me the expected income, I decided to clear it and plant fruit trees that generate higher and sustainable yields.”
Currently, he owns over 1,200 modern avocado trees, more than 2,000 tree tomato plants grown on over 1.1 hectares and passion fruits cultivated on more than 1.5 hectares. This farming venture has transformed the lives of many community members, as Darius employs more than 20 casual workers every month, in addition to five permanent employees.
Residents say that this project has helped them secure jobs and reduce poverty. Darius has also supported some families by providing them with small livestock, helping them access organic manure and increase productivity on their farms.
Gasongo, one of the permanent workers, says that the income he earns from this farm enables him to meet basic needs and improve his livelihood.
“The money I earn here helps me buy clothes, pay for community-based health insurance, and solve other financial challenges. Darius has helped us a lot.” Says Gasongo. Darius says that from passion fruit farming alone, he earns about 400,000 Rwandan francs per month, after paying workers, while tree tomato farming brings him at least 600,000 Rwandan francs per month.
He also highlights the strong potential of avocado farming, especially following the establishment of an avocado oil processing factory in Huye District, as well as trade agreements signed between Rwanda and China for avocado exports.
Havugarurema Darius expresses his appreciation to the Government of Rwanda, particularly President Paul Kagame, for continuously encouraging Rwandans to work hard and become self-reliant. “Our country has given us great opportunities, especially security, which allows us to work without fear and develop ourselves.” He speaks.
Beyond improving farmers’ incomes, fruit farming also plays a key role in combating malnutrition, making Darius’ agricultural initiative an important contribution to public health and overall community development.
