Rugombo Farmers Reap First Crops of May Harvest with Restobu’s Support

Members of the Rubuye cell harvesting rice

Smiles of satisfaction light up the faces of local development cell members in Rugombo commune as they harvest the first rice fields of May—a powerful moment of transformation made possible through support from Restoration Burundi (Restobu). This joyful occasion is part of a broader socio-economic initiative aimed at helping vulnerable families rise out of poverty through sustainable farming and income-generating activities. The scene captures more than just a harvest—it’s the result of months of dedication, training, and teamwork.

Restobu has established development cells across various regions of Burundi, including Kirundo Province, in Busoni and Bugabira communes, Rugombo Commune in Cibitoke Province, and the Mubone neighborhood in Bujumbura. These cells bring together local people, often from poor church communities, and support them with training in modern farming techniques, mindset transformation, and project development. For many, this is their first encounter with structured agricultural work, and it’s proving to be life-changing

Members of the cells attending an illustrative training on rice farming

Onesime watches as rice bags were being loaded on bicycles

Onesime Nikiza, from the Kirwati cell, standing proudly by the bags filled with newly cut rice, remarked, “There’s a great advantage in working together. Just look at our achievements—this is only one of the three fields we’ve cultivated. When we work as a team, the burden becomes lighter.” His words resonate with the many others who have experienced similar breakthroughs.

Annociate Ndayizeye, a mother of six, shares her excitement as she holds the ripe stalks of rice. Until now, she supported her family by selling charcoal, a trade that barely sustained them. “Thanks to this group, we were able to plough a larger plot,” she says. “That’s why I am so glad today.”

Nizeyimana Elie, a newlywed and member of the Rubuye cell, had never farmed rice before. Landless and uncertain about the benefits of group work, he hesitated at first. “I didn’t understand the point of working in a group,” he admits. “But after attending the training sessions and seeing the results of our efforts, I was overwhelmed with joy. I’ve learned about property management, using appropriate seeds—things I never would’ve discovered alone. Just look around; the plots nearby don’t compare to ours.”

Emelyne, who lives with her husband in a rented home, explains how they used to grow sweet potatoes on small plots but never dared to try rice farming due to the high costs of renting fertile waterland. “Rice seemed too demanding,” she says. “But now I see that it’s the most profitable activity we could pursue, which can contribute to one’s development. I’m proud of this group. I said to myself, I would join it to improve my living conditions. I am grateful to those who brought us together.”

Annociate, cell member

Elie, Cell member

Emelyne, Cell member

Restobu targets churchgoers in this area to also address deeper social and spiritual challenges in the community. In areas like Rugombo, some sectarian beliefs have discouraged collaboration, labeling associations as “Anti-Christ” or urging believers to focus solely on prayer rather than productive labor. Restobu counters this by teaching biblical principles that emphasize the importance of diligence, cooperation, and stewardship. Through sensitization efforts, many churchgoers are now understanding the value of hard work and collective action.

As nine farming projects roll out across Kirundo and Cibitoke, the month of May brings a season of fulfillment. The rice harvest is only the beginning—these cells have more fields still to be harvested. These achievements have inspired many who never thought they’d see such results in their lifetime.

To experience this transformation firsthand, watch the video highlights of the rice harvest below. Rice reaping

Part of the rice field of Rubuye Cell

Thanks to Restobu, the people of Rugombo are not just harvesting rice—they're harvesting hope, dignity, and a new vision for the future.