Prime Minister Dr. Ngirente welcomed Dr. Anouar Jamali, CEO of OCP AFRICA, to Rwanda on his way to the official launch of the Rwanda Fertiliser Blending Plant at the Bugesera Special Economic Zone.
The launch of the $19.2 million (approx. Rwf24 billion) plant, covering 8 hectares at the Bugesera industrial park, was presided over by Trade Minister, Prof Jean Chyrsostome Ngabitsinze.
The factory, a joint venture between OCP AFRICA and the Rwanda Government, is equipped with an annual capacity to blend 100,000 tonnes of fertilisers.
Fertiliser application in Rwanda has remained low, averaging 60 kilogrammes per hectare, in contrast to developed countries where this figure reaches 140 kilogrammes per hectare.
Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Ildephonse Musafiri, emphasized that local blending is expected to lower fertiliser prices, making them more accessible to farmers.
The plant, a significant addition to Rwanda’s industrial landscape, is forecasted to create around 50 direct jobs and promote expertise transfer to enhance the country’s fertiliser industry.
The Rwanda Fertiliser Company (RFC) anticipates a 25% increase in farmers’ income, contributing to economic empowerment.
Rwanda’s current annual demand for fertilisers stands at 85,000 tonnes, primarily met through imports.
OCP Africa, owning 57.4% of the shares, Agaciro Development Fund with 32.6%, and APTC holding 10%, jointly spearheaded this initiative. 
Dr. Mohamed Anouar Jamali, CEO of OCP Africa & Chairman of RFC, emphasized the transformative role of this facility in Rwanda’s agricultural value chain.
He highlighted OCP Africa’s commitment to revolutionizing the food system in the East African region, citing Rwanda’s strategic importance to their objectives.
With its roots in Morocco and operations across 35 countries, OCP Africa, represented by employees from 17 nationalities, underscores its commitment to partnering with farmers and stakeholders across the continent.
This collaboration spans various aspects of the agricultural value chain, offering tailored fertiliser solutions, enhancing local soil productivity, ensuring competitive pricing in the local market, and bolstering the distribution network in Rwanda.
The inauguration of the Plant marks a milestone in the country’s journey towards bolstering its agricultural sector, enhancing food security, and empowering local farmers.
