As part of its mandate under the Knowledge Hub for Organic Agriculture and Agroecology in Eastern Africa (KCOA-KHEA), the Rwanda Organic Agriculture Movement (ROAM) a Country Implementing Partner (CIP) in Rwanda successfully supported 15 agroecological multipliers to participate in the Kigali Farmers & Artisans Market, held during the Kigali International Peace Marathon from June 7–8, 2025.

This initiative directly contributes to Focus Area 3 of the KCOA-KHEA project, which aims to strengthen consumer awareness and demand for organic products across Eastern Africa. By connecting farmers to urban and international consumers at a high-profile events like the Peace Marathon, ROAM helped bridge the gap between producers and buyers while promoting ecological food systems and certified organic products.

The event, hosted at Amahoro Stadium’s Marathon Green Village, drew over 10,000 attendees and offered participating farmers and artisans a unique platform to showcase a variety of organic goods including fresh fruits, vegetables, juices, herbal insecticides, maize flour, coffee, macademia, and handmade crafts.

ROAM’s booth also promoted the Kilimohai organic certification mark, building consumer trust and raising awareness about the value of organically grown food. The campaign was further amplified through social media using hashtags such as; #GrowLocal, EatHealthy #RootsInSustainability, # IamOrganic, # GrowOrganicSaveThePlanet and , reaching broader audiences and reinforcing calls to action for sustainable living.

“This was more than just a market, it was a celebration of sustainable farming and an opportunity for farmers to tell their story directly to the public,” said Ms. Lise Chantal Dusabe-CEO of ROAM.

Exhibitors reported encouraging sales, including 129 kilograms of produce, 24 litres of juices, natural insecticides, and 16 handcrafted items were sold. Beyond immediate sales, several farmers built new connections with customers and partners, laying the groundwork for future market opportunities.

The event also sparked important conversations about the sustainability of such efforts. ROAM and its network of multipliers expressed commitment to mobilizing local resources to support future participation in such events, signalling a step toward self-reliance and longer-term impact.

Through this engagement, ROAM reaffirmed its role in advancing the goals of the KCOA-KHEA project in Rwanda: creating awareness, driving demand, and cultivating a resilient & organic food system for generations to come.

Prepared by Pamella Magino-KHEA Communications Officer