1. Outline and give characteristics of the different basic farm types

Question

2. Based on the information got from guestion one, discuss different farming systems that are practiced in Rwanda as well as their driving factors

Answer 1

1. Different basic farm types and their characteristics include:

a) Subsistence farms: These are small-scale farms where the primary goal is to produce enough food to sustain the farmer and their family. They typically have minimal use of modern machinery and rely heavily on manual labor. Subsistence farms are usually found in developing countries and are characterized by low productivity and limited access to markets.

b) Commercial farms: These farms focus on producing crops or raising livestock for sale in markets. They are often larger in scale and may utilize modern technologies and machinery to optimize production. Commercial farms aim to generate profits and may specialize in specific products or sectors, such as dairy farming or crop cultivation.

c) Mixed farms: These farms combine both subsistence and commercial elements. They produce enough food for the farmer's family while also engaging in agricultural activities for income generation. Mixed farms typically have a diverse range of crops and livestock and aim to maintain a balance between self-sufficiency and market-oriented production.

d) Specialized farms: These farms focus on the production of a specific crop or livestock type. They may have high levels of specialization and utilize advanced technologies and practices to maximize yields and efficiency. This type of farm aims to capture niche markets and often requires significant investment in infrastructure and equipment.

2. In Rwanda, various farming systems are practiced based on the country's geographical conditions, climate, and socio-economic factors. Some of them include:

a) Terrace farming: This system is prevalent in the hilly regions of Rwanda. Terraces are built on slopes to create level platforms for growing crops, helping prevent erosion and maximize land use.

b) Intensive farming: Due to population density and limited arable land, intensive farming systems are practiced in Rwanda. This involves maximizing productivity from smaller land areas through intensive use of fertilizers, mechanization, and high-yielding crop varieties.

c) Agroforestry: With a focus on sustainable land management, many farmers in Rwanda practice agroforestry. This involves integrating trees, crops, and livestock in a single farming system, benefiting from synergies between different elements and promoting environmental conservation.

d) Commercial dairy farming: In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards commercial dairy farming in Rwanda. This system involves specialized farms that rear dairy cattle for milk production, catering to the increasing demand for dairy products in urban areas.

The driving factors behind these farming systems in Rwanda include the country's topography, which necessitates terracing and intensive farming practices. Additionally, population pressures and limited fertile land availability push farmers towards more intensive and commercial farming methods. Government support through policies, training, and access to finance also plays a role in promoting specific farming systems, such as commercial dairy farming. The aim is to increase food security, enhance livelihoods, and promote sustainable agriculture.