Bugesera – 04 March 2026 | The Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA) highlighted its commitment to an integrated approach to well-being, through a comprehensive One Health training for its faculty and staff.
Led by Dr. Fausta Dutuze, RICA’s One Health Thread Coordinator, the session emphasized critical interconnections. It highlighted the links between human, animal, and environmental health. This philosophy is central to RICA’s research, training, and extension activities.
Connecting Conservation Agriculture to One Health
The training stressed how RICA’s core mission is intrinsically linked to One Health principles. In particular, the session focused on Conservation Agriculture (CA) and its interconnection with One Health.
For instance, CA practices such as minimal soil disturbance and permanent soil cover are vital. They directly contribute to maintaining healthy ecosystems (Principle 7). Furthermore, they help in preserving water and soil quality (Principle 9).
By minimizing chemical inputs and promoting natural processes, CA reduces risks. This aligns with responsible agricultural input use (Principle 2). Thus, this safeguards both human and animal health from harmful residues.
Implementing an Integrated Model
RICA’s integrated model ensures that all departments recognize their role. Everyone is involved in upholding these principles. This ranges from responsible waste management (Principle 14) through composting, to promoting biodiversity on campus.
This holistic understanding empowers RICA’s team in two ways. First, they can educate students as future One Health leaders (Principle 13). Second, they can conduct research and deliver extension services. Ultimately, these efforts drive sustainable development and enhance community well-being across Rwanda.
RICA remains dedicated to its mission. The institute fosters a new generation of agricultural innovators who understand and apply this vital interconnectedness.
Open this link to learn more about One Health Principles
