In Kigali today, something new is happening on rooftops. Instead of only seeing water tanks and solar panels, you can now find green gardens full of vegetables and herbs. Young people and small startups are turning empty rooftops and small city spaces into farms. This new trend, called urban farming or rooftop gardening, is becoming popular in the city and nearby districts.
Why young people are doing rooftop farming
Land in Kigali is becoming more expensive and hard to find. But food demand keeps growing. So, young entrepreneurs started using rooftops, balconies, and small walls to grow food. Some are using modern systems like hydroponics (growing plants in water instead of soil) or vertical gardens (stacked gardens that go upwards instead of across the ground).
These methods help people grow food in small spaces while saving water and producing vegetables all year round.
The benefits of urban farming
Improving food supply: Rooftop gardens help people get fresh food nearby instead of waiting for vegetables to come from far villages. This means less transport, less cost, and fresher food.
Creating income: Young people are making money by selling lettuce, strawberries, herbs, and microgreens to hotels, supermarkets, and families in the city.
Protecting the environment: Rooftop farms use less water, help reduce heat in the city, and make Kigali greener and fresher.
Success stories from Kigali
One inspiring example is Eza Neza, a young Rwandan company that builds hydroponic systems and greenhouses in Kigali. They grow crops like strawberries, tomatoes, and lettuce on rooftops and in small spaces. Eza Neza even worked with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on a pilot project in Kigali that shows how vertical farming can produce a lot of food using very little land and water.
Another success is the rise of microgreens businesses, small farms growing young plants full of vitamins. Many youths now sell these to cafés, restaurants, and health-conscious buyers. Microgreens grow fast and need very little space, so even people living in apartments can start small.
The challenges they face
Even though urban farming is growing, it still has challenges:
Startup costs: Equipment for hydroponics and rooftop gardens can be expensive. Young people often struggle to get money to begin.
Skills and knowledge: Not everyone knows how to build or care for rooftop gardens, especially the technical ones.
Building rules: Some rooftops may not be strong enough or allowed for farming without safety checks.
Finding a market: Many young farmers still need help finding stable buyers or promoting their products to a bigger audience.
Who is supporting this movement?
The government, NGOs, and international organizations are starting to help. The FAO has supported demonstration farms and training projects. Agritech competitions and local programs are also helping youth learn skills and connect with investors. This support is helping more people believe that urban farming can be a real business.
Tips for young people who want to start
Start small — use your balcony or rooftop to test growing herbs or microgreens.
Work with others — team up with restaurants, schools, or neighbors who have space.
Learn and get training — many programs now teach hydroponics and modern farming.
Check your rooftop — make sure it’s strong and waterproof.
Market your produce — use social media to show your fresh, locally grown vegetables.
Urban farming in Kigali is not just a trend, it’s a smart solution for food, jobs, and sustainability. Young people are proving that you don’t need big land to make a big impact. With more training, support, and awareness, the “rooftop revolution” could change how Kigali produces and enjoys food.
It’s green, it’s modern, and it’s the future of city life in Rwanda.
Brenna AKARABO
RADIOTV10
