Ruhorimbere Valens credits the Sustainable Agricultural Intensification and Food Security Project (SAIP) for helping him expand his bakery business, enabling him to produce bread, doughnuts, and other flour-based products using pumpkins (amadegede). He went from producing just seven packs per day using traditional methods to 3,000 packs daily with modern equipment.
On March 2, 2025, while hosting a group of journalists, Ruhorimbere, the founder of Iwacu Bakery Solution Company in Gatsibo District, Kabarore Sector, Kabarore Cell, Kabarore ya Kabiri Village, shared how he started by making just five to seven packs of bread and doughnuts, which he sold in his small canteen. Today, he owns a factory producing 3,000 packs per day.
From University research to a thriving bakery
In 2020, after graduating with a degree in Food Science, Ruhorimbere conducted research on pumpkin farming, which is abundant in Gatsibo District. He explored ways to add value to pumpkins by incorporating them into bread and doughnuts rich in Vitamin A. Starting as a one-man business, he now employs 17 full-time workers and five temporary staff.
With support from SAIP, he received a matching grant covering 70% of an investment exceeding 100 million RWF, which enabled him to build a modern production facility and acquire advanced baking equipment, including ovens, mixers, and trays.
SAIP’s support transformed the business
In 2021, SAIP’s support changed everything. Ruhorimbere moved from traditional production methods to modern baking techniques and created jobs for the local community.
“Before SAIP’s support, we worked extremely hard but produced very little only five to seven packs per day, which we sold in our canteen. Now, we produce 3,000 packs daily. In 2021, SAIP provided us with advanced baking machines that significantly increased our productivity and ensured quality. They funded 70% of the equipment and contributed to the construction of our production facility.”
By 2024, the company had completed its new bakery facility, transforming into a full-scale bakery producing bread, doughnuts, and other flour-based products enriched with pumpkins.
“Before, we couldn’t measure the sugar content in pumpkins, but with the equipment we received, we can now analyze sugar levels, ensuring quality and consistency in our products.”
Iwacu Bakery has revolutionized the local pumpkin industry by creating a sustainable market for farmers while promoting nutritious, high-quality baked goods. Thanks to SAIP’s investment, the bakery not only enhances agricultural productivity but also improves food security and public health.
By leveraging the natural benefits of pumpkins, including their rich Vitamin A content, natural sweetness, and high fiber, Iwacu Bakery minimizes the use of artificial additives, contributing to the fight against malnutrition and diet-related diseases.
“SAIP has transformed People’s lives”
The Mayor of Gatsibo District acknowledged SAIP’s impact on the community, stating:
“Businesses like Iwacu Bakery Solutions, alongside other SAIP-supported enterprises, have played a crucial role in job creation, youth employment, and boosting the commercialization and profitability of small-scale farmers. This ultimately drives socio-economic development in the region.”
The role of SAIP in agricultural development
Hitimana Jean, the SAIP Project Manager, explained that SAIP is funded by the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program (GAFSP) through the World Bank and is implemented by RAB’s Single Project Implementation Unit (SPIU).
“The project’s objectives are to increase agricultural productivity, develop market access, and enhance food security. Key initiatives include small-scale irrigation, the promotion of vegetable and fruit farming, and financial support for agri-businesses through matching grants. Additionally, the project focuses on improving and modernizing nutrition.”
With SAIP’s implementation currently at 50% completion, the project is expected to conclude in 2026, continuing to support agriculture, food security, and entrepreneurship across the country.
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