The Government of Rwanda, through the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), is continuing research into new grape varieties as part of efforts to expand commercial grape farming in the country.
He explained that researchers are currently testing two main categories of grapes: table grapes for consumption and wine grapes for wine production. Although the research is still in its early stages, officials say the results so far are promising.
The grape varieties under trial include Brisktaler Muskateler, a white grape used mainly for white wine but also suitable for eating, Muscat Blue, a dark red grape commonly used for juice, table consumption and wine, as well as the already familiar Isabella variety.
Muscat Blue is considered particularly valuable because it is more resistant to diseases that commonly affect grape crops compared to traditional varieties.
RAB says that if the research proves successful, wider cultivation of the grapes could begin in early 2027, initially on small-scale farms before expanding gradually.
Grapevines generally take up to three years before producing significant harvests. During the third year, yields are expected to reach around 2.5 tons per hectare, increasing to nearly 10 tons per hectare by the fifth year when the plants fully mature.
RAB estimates that between 2017 and 2020, Rwanda imported nearly 4,000 tons of grapes worth about $5.6 million.
Officials believe increasing local grape production could significantly reduce imports, save foreign exchange and create export opportunities, particularly in wine production.
One of the investors already involved in grape farming is Théogène Ntampaka, owner of Isimbi Industries Ltd based in Huye District. He began grape farming in 2013 with 1,000 vines and currently produces about three tons per hectare, harvesting twice a year.
Ntampaka is also preparing to complete a red wine processing factory in the near future. However, he says limited access to large-scale farmland remains one of the main challenges facing grape farming expansion in Rwanda.
He noted that he has experimented with grape farming in both Huye and Rwamagana districts on about two hectares of land, but expanding production commercially would require at least 50 hectares and greater participation from other farmers.
Rwanda is also exploring a broader project that would combine grape farming, wine production and tourism as part of efforts to diversify the economy.
According to RAB, Rwanda’s climate offers favorable conditions for grape cultivation because grapes grow best in temperatures ranging between 21°C and 27°C, allowing the fruit to mature properly and develop high-quality juice.
Source: The New Times
