IN traditional society some stereotypes and myths prevented many Rwandans from eating mushrooms.
One of the theories, which was probably the most widely spread prohibited livestock farmers from eating them. According to the theory, eating mushrooms would result in the death of cows which were regarded as a sign of wealth in the Rwandan culture.
Little did people know that mushrooms were rich in nutrients and offered a variety of health benefits. In such conditions, it was difficult for anyone to venture into the cultivation of the crop. Fast forward 2012, mushrooms are appreciated in many households. They are used to make soups, salads, and sandwiches among other things.
The demand has forced many people to venture in commercial mushroom growing. Among those are members of Abaruhuje cooperative, a 24 members group based in Ngoma sector, Huye district.
The cooperative started mushroom growing in 2009 to improve the welfare of its members and their families.
According to Marthe Bakayihinda, its representative, mushroom growing has significantly boosted their revenues and nutrient ration in their respective homes.
Bakayihinda says growing mushrooms "is an easy activity which does not require much investment.
"Mushrooms can be grown on a small plot of land and still generate much revenue for the farmer," Bakayihinda says.
"only eight days after planting, you can harvest...and the productivity is high," she added.
On one square metre plot, the harvest can surpass 64 kilogrammes and this goes on for three months after which the seeds are replaced, according to the farmer.
But, this will depend on how well a farmer has monitored the crops, she says.
"This activity is a potential source of revenue for families," Bakayihinda notes, as she encourages others to venture into it.
The woman disclosed that her cooperative is moving from the cultivation of the mushrooms to producing quality seeds for other willing farmers to access them easily.
"We have decided to invest more in this area as we have realised it is a productive venture," she says.
And, Abaruhuje cooperative wants other farmers to venture into mushroom growing.
"We want to train other farmers in modern methods of growing mushrooms for them to improve their wellbeing," Bakayihinda notes.
Mushroom growing remains largely untapped, and still offers opportunity to generate income.
According to the farmers, the market demand is still high.
"Local people have started realising the health benefits from eating mushrooms and this is an important market for the produce," Bakayihinda says, citing other farmers' cooperatives, hotels and restaurants, among other clients.
