Next Farm LTD

“We do not have more expansion of land and resource; we are just using what we have. We have to maximise the valorisation of what we have without degrading the environment,” explains Eugene Uwineza, Technical Advisor at Next Farm.  

Next Farm was established in 2018 with the vision of producing high-quality agricultural products that are both nutritious and sustainable, while minimizing waste and providing local employment. After experimenting with various income-generating ideas, the farm identified pig and maize production as the most sustainable business model.  

In recent years, the Rwanda Agricultural and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) has imported high-yield pig breeds to promote and increase pork production as a priority industry. Pork is considered a luxury item for many Rwandans, but by increasing pork yields, the Government of Rwanda aims to make protein more accessible to the general population and grow the export market. Next Farm works closely with RAB to source high-yield pigs, building a profitable business that benefits both the economy and the local community.  

Given the challenges of meat storage and preservation, Next Farm has also diversified into producing sausages and other pork-based products to increase sustainability and expand their market share.  

The farm is committed to reducing and reusing waste through the production of compost made from processed maize husk residue and pig manure. This compost is used on their farm to boost maize yields, completing the circular farming process. Additionally, they sell compost to other farmers in the area, supporting sustainable agriculture beyond their own operations. Although they initially began composting two years ago, the CIRF training in early 2024 enabled them to refine and expand their compost production, increasing their output.  

“So, the circular economy just helps us valorise all resources that we have without damaging the environment… We hope that it will increase income without needing more investment, more money, or more resources, because we can valorise what is already around us—and these resources are environmentally friendly,” says Eugene.  

Next Farm’s focus on circular practices allows them to transform waste into valuable products, supporting both sustainability and profitability. With CIRF technical assistance and marketing support, Next Farm is well-positioned to grow their business and contribute to the development of Rwanda’s pork value chain.