A Chinese agricultural innovation is making significant strides in Rwanda, offering sustainable solutions to food security and livelihood challenges. Juncao technology, a method developed by Chinese scientist Professor Lin Zhanxi, uses grass instead of wood to cultivate mushrooms and produce livestock feed. This low-cost, eco-friendly approach is gaining traction in Rwanda, transforming the lives of farmers and contributing to national development goals.
At the China-Rwanda Agriculture Technology Demonstration Center in Huye District, Chinese Juncao expert Chen Xiaobin recently demonstrated the uses of crushed Juncao to trainees. The center, launched in 2021 as part of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) framework, has trained over 600 Rwandans in Juncao technology, equipping them with skills to grow edible mushrooms sustainably.
The impact of Juncao technology is evident in the lives of farmers like Claudine Uwamariya from Nyanza District. “Before I adopted the technology, my life was not good. I had no source of income. Now, I am able to take care of my family and pay school fees for my children,” said the 47-year-old farmer. The method is particularly suitable for smallholder farmers as it does not require sophisticated inputs or equipment.
Zhang Yi, a Chinese agricultural expert at the demonstration center, explained that Juncao has multiple uses. “Juncao grass has multiple uses — it can be used for mushroom growing, animal feed, soil erosion control, and even as a source of renewable energy,” he said. This versatility makes it a valuable tool for Rwanda’s agricultural sector.
The Rwandan government has recognized the potential of Juncao technology and incorporated it into the school feeding program to reduce malnutrition and improve learning outcomes among children. Mushrooms cultivated using Juncao are being integrated into school meals in various districts, supporting the country’s nutrition agenda while providing income-generating opportunities for communities.
Telesphore Ndabamenye, director general of the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board, highlighted the comprehensive benefits of Juncao technology. “Juncao technology offers far more than mushroom cultivation; it is a comprehensive innovation having crop, livestock production, environmental protection, livelihood nutrition and economic empowerment,” he said at the closing ceremony of a Juncao technology workshop in Kigali.
Professor Lin Zhanxi, the inventor of Juncao, emphasized the technology’s global reach and its role in fostering international cooperation. “Juncao is a gift from China to the world. It reflects the spirit of friendship and mutual development,” he told Xinhua. The technology has been introduced to more than 100 countries under China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
The Rwandan government has expressed interest in expanding the use of Juncao technology nationwide. Officials believe this could help diversify food production, enhance climate resilience, and create thousands of jobs. As part of ongoing cooperation, China has pledged to continue supporting technical training and providing Juncao seedlings to Rwandan farmers.
With its wide applications and low environmental footprint, Juncao technology is emerging as a powerful tool in Rwanda’s efforts to build a green, inclusive, and food-secure future. The collaboration between China and Rwanda exemplifies how international partnerships can drive sustainable agricultural development and improve livelihoods.