Rwanda faces challenges in using agricultural cold storage facilities

Claude Bizimana, Chief Executive Officer of the National Agricultural Export Development Board, told lawmakers that several cold rooms across the country both publicly and privately owned remain idle or underused despite significant investment.

His comments followed a 2024/2025 report by the Office of the Ombudsman, which found that cold storage facilities intended to preserve agricultural produce are not operating in many parts of the country.

Bizimana said some facilities were constructed far from production zones, making them impractical for farmers who can sell their produce quickly at nearby markets.

“In areas where production is low or buyers are readily available, farmers see no benefit in storing their crops,” Bizimana said.

High operating costs also limit use, particularly electricity expenses and the cost of replacing equipment. Although some cold rooms rely on solar power, Bizimana said the technology does not always provide adequate cooling.

He added that consumer perceptions remain a significant barrier. Many buyers prefer produce they believe is freshly harvested, leading sellers to fear that stored products will lose value.

“There is a mindset that stored food is not good,” Bizimana said, noting that shoppers often ask whether fruits and vegetables are from the same day.

Members of Parliament questioned whether proper feasibility studies were conducted before the facilities were built.

“It is concerning to see these facilities unused after public funds were spent to address post-harvest losses,” said MP Germaine Mukabalisa, calling for accountability and corrective action.

MP Etienne Nsabimana Mvano said some cold rooms were built in areas with insufficient agricultural output and urged authorities to ensure they are used for their intended purpose.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Dr. Olivier Kamana, said the government would assess each facility and connect them with producers who suffer frequent post-harvest losses.

“This is an issue we are taking seriously, and we will act quickly,” Kamana said.

The Africa Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Cooling and Cold-chain at the University of Rwanda is expected to help train users in effective cold storage practices.