RBI Advances Climate-Smart Rice Agriculture
On 29 May 2026, Resilient Builders Initiative (RBI) convened a consultative meeting in Muhanga District with leaders of rice farmer unions and cooperatives from the Western and Southern Provinces. Participants represented Nyamasheke and Rusizi districts in the West, and Nyamagabe, Huye, Gisagara, Ruhango, Muhanga, and Kamonyi districts in the South.
The meeting focused on introducing Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) technology—an innovative, climate-smart irrigation practice designed to:
- ✅ Increase rice productivity
- ✅ Reduce methane (CH₄) emissions
- ✅ Save irrigation water and lower costs 💧
Traditionally, rice plots remain continuously flooded, consuming excessive water and generating high methane emissions. AWD transforms this approach by alternating wet and dry cycles, supported by IoT-enabled smart sensors that monitor soil moisture and water levels in real time. Automated irrigation processes, remote monitoring, and data analytics empower farmers to optimize water use, adapt to climate variability, and cut greenhouse gas emissions.
RBI’s MRV Dashboard integrates field sensors, satellite data, and farmer reports to track carbon performance. This ensures transparency, accountability, and alignment with carbon credit certification, positioning the project within the global carbon market. Evidence shows that digitalized AWD significantly reduces methane emissions (CH4) and water consumption compared to traditional flooding methods, making it a breakthrough for sustainable rice farming.
During the session, participants raised key questions on farmer roles, project benefits, and the link between rice farming and emissions. Leaders of unions and cooperatives welcomed the initiative and pledged partnership with RBI. Further consultations with district authorities, ministries, and environmental stakeholders are scheduled to strengthen collaboration and ensure inclusive implementation.
