PSDAG Fiscal Year (FY) 2016 Q2 Progress Report: January 1, 2016 – March 31, 2016

The project's primary objective is to assist the Government of Rwanda (GOR) in creating an enabling environment for private sector investment in agriculture. To achieve this objective, PSDAG has been implementing several activities, including the facilitation of the creation of an investment framework for agriculture investment promotion as part of the National Agribusiness Strategy. The project has also been providing technical assistance to the Investment Support Unit and developing capacity building tools and plans. In addition, PSDAG has been working to facilitate private sector investment in upgrading value chains. This has involved activities such as mapping market opportunities, linking market opportunities to value chain actors, and providing business development services. The project has also been supporting the testing and adoption of new technologies, as well as the establishment of ancillary businesses. PSDAG has been monitoring and evaluating its progress through various indicators, including the number of farmers trained in sustainable agriculture practices, the number of demonstration plots established, and the yield improvements achieved. The project has also been tracking the amount of fertilizer sold by agro-dealers during the reporting period. The project has been working closely with various stakeholders, including the Government of Rwanda, the Rwanda Development Board, and the private sector. PSDAG has also been engaging with international organizations, such as the International Finance Corporation and the International Fertilizer Development Corporation. In terms of social inclusion, PSDAG has been working to ensure that women and other marginalized groups have access to the benefits of the project. The project has also been promoting good agricultural practices and providing training to farmers on sustainable agriculture techniques. The project has been making progress in its objectives, with notable achievements including the establishment of demonstration plots, the provision of training to farmers, and the sale of fertilizer by agro-dealers. However, challenges remain, including the need to improve the business enabling environment and to increase private sector investment in agriculture. Overall, PSDAG is making significant contributions to the development of Rwanda's agricultural sector, and its efforts are expected to have a positive impact on the country's economic growth and poverty reduction.