Growing with impact: how UKC is transforming livestock farming in Rwanda

Published: 04/09/2025

From feed shortages to climate-smart solutions thanks to the support of OVO and investors 

Livestock farming in Rwanda has long struggled with a shortage of nutritious and sustainable animal feed. With support from OVO and its investors, Uruhimbi Kageyo Ltd (UKC) launched an ambitious growth project: hydroponic fodder production combined with the processing into high-quality pellets. The result? Better nutrition for animals, improved food security, and new opportunities for young people and women in agriculture. 

 

Investment that pays off 

With a €30,000 loan and coaching from OVO, UKC invested in two large hydroponic greenhouses and a pelletizer machine with a capacity of 420 tons per month. Production expanded from three to five sites, while the greenhouses were upgraded with durable metal structures. UKC also developed species-specific feed tailored to the needs of cattle, pigs, poultry, goats, and sheep. 

“The collaboration with OVO helped UKC grow from a small idea into a proven model for climate-smart agriculture in Rwanda.” 

 

Tangible results in numbers 

The impact of the project is clear: 

  • +45% more production capacity 
  • Indirectly, 54 permanent jobs were created, 60% filled by youth and 40% by women 
  • Hundreds of seasonal workers employed 
  • 40% more training participants than originally planned 
  • Field trials further proved that the new feed leads to healthier animals and better weight gain. 

Financial and social success 

The project delivered not only social impact but also financial strength. The loan was fully and timely repaid – a powerful signal of financial discipline and entrepreneurial resilience. 

“The loan enabled investments, but the coaching ensured sustainable growth with more discipline and vision.” 

 

Looking ahead 

UKC is now planning to further expand pellet production to new regions, establish a quality laboratory, and roll out a franchise model to strengthen local cooperatives. 

 

Join us, invest with us 

This success story shows the powerful mix of capital, coaching, and collaboration. Thanks to investors and partners, UKC has grown into a proven model for climate-smart agriculture. 

 

Would you like to create impact too and support African entrepreneurs? Discover the opportunities via www.ovo.be or contact karen@ovo.be directly for more information on ongoing projects and investment opportunities. 
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