The Chamber of Deputies has adopted the relavance of the two draft laws designed to modernise Rwanda’s agricultural sector: one governing animal husbandry, animal health and fisheries, and the other addressing plant production, seeds and crop protection.

The animal husbandry bill consolidates four existing laws into a single framework and aligns Rwanda with international standards, including the World Organisation for Animal Health. It strengthens animal health protection, regulates veterinary services and medicines, and introduces clearer provisions on animal welfare and conservation of local breeds.

The plant production bill addresses gaps in seed systems, plant health and agrochemicals, while promoting farmer professionalisation and private sector participation. It also ensures compliance with the International Plant Protection Convention and enhances quality control and traceability of agricultural inputs.

Both laws respond to emerging challenges such as climate change and zoonotic diseases, and aim to support investment, innovation and sustainable growth. The draft laws will now be reviewed by the relevant standing committee before final adoption.