On 6 May 2026, in Kigali, Rwanda Biotech Capacity Building (BioCAP), in partnership with the University of Rwanda, joined the national celebration of World DNA Week Rwanda 2026. The event brought together scientists, students, and key stakeholders to advance biotechnology awareness and showcase its critical role in transforming health, agriculture, and sustainable development in Rwanda.
A major highlight was the presentation by Dr. Bellancilla Uzaseyinga, who introduced the BioCAP Project a five-year initiative aimed at strengthening agricultural biotechnology capacity in Rwanda. The project will establish a Centre of Excellence at the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), Rubona Station, with a strong focus on improving staple crops such as potato, cassava, and banana. Through advanced research, innovation, and international collaboration, BioCAP is expected to boost productivity and enhance resilience across Rwanda’s agricultural systems.
The panel discussion that followed underscored the importance of collaboration in advancing biotechnology. Participants highlighted opportunities in joint research, professional training, and student engagement. Institutions committed to expanding access to laboratories, internships, and hands-on learning to ensure students gain practical, real-world skills.
Speakers also emphasized the need to strengthen capacity building and science communication. Young scientists were encouraged not only to develop technical expertise but also to effectively communicate biotechnology concepts to communities, helping to build public trust and understanding.
The session later took a practical turn with an insightful presentation by Dr. Léonce Dusengemungu on “Engineering Resilient Crops: Biotechnology in Action.” He demonstrated how DNA-based technologies are being applied to improve crops such as potato, cassava, and maize developing varieties that are more resistant to diseases and pests, and ultimately supporting food security and sustainable agriculture in Rwanda.
Overall, the event reaffirmed Rwanda’s growing commitment to biotechnology as a driver of transformation, while strengthening collaboration between academia, research institutions, and young scientists in building a more innovative and food-secure future.
This momentum builds on a key milestone achieved on 15 December 2025, when Rwanda officially launched the BioCAP Project in Kigali. Led by the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board in partnership with the International Potato Center, the initiative aims to position Rwanda as a regional hub for safe, climate-smart biotechnology in Africa.
Over the past four decades, this collaboration has evolved into a trusted alliance involving Rwandan scientists, research institutions, universities, private enterprises, and farmers formalized through a Host Country Agreement signed in 2015. Today, Rwanda is increasingly recognized as a regional leader in science, innovation, and biotechnology. The BioCAP Project stands as a strong example of the country’s commitment to responsibly governed biotechnology systems that deliver tangible benefits for farmers, protect the environment, and strengthen regional food systems.
At a time when Africa faces intensifying climate pressures, the BioCAP initiative is both timely and essentialreinforcing the urgent need to invest in scientific capacity and sustainable agricultural solutions across the continent.
✍️ Alexis Nyandwi
Agriculture Social Media Influencers | OFAB Winner Digital Content & Social Media category 2025