Rwanda’s Prime Minister, Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, has called on graduates of the Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA) to be agents of change, problem-solvers, and providers of opportunities that can transform lives. He delivered this message on Friday, September 19, 2025, during the graduation ceremony for 83 students who completed their Bachelor’s degrees, marking the institution’s third graduation since its founding.

The Prime Minister reminded graduates that their skills must serve beyond personal gain, emphasizing their role in implementing the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), which seeks to increase yields of key crops by 50% to strengthen food security and boost exports. He urged them to apply the knowledge acquired at RICA to lead innovations in sustainable agriculture.

Dr. Nsengiyumva also praised Howard Graham Buffett, the founder and CEO of RICA, for his vision and commitment to agricultural education in Rwanda. He highlighted the strong partnership between the Government of Rwanda and the Howard G. Buffett Foundation in nurturing the next generation of leaders who will transform agriculture into a productive, market-driven, and sustainable sector.