Josué Aristide Nkezabahizi, born in 1998, operates a large-scale livestock farm in Gitanga that currently houses nearly 400 pigs of improved breeds. The agricultural project provides a steady income to support his family members. Regarding his motivation for the venture, Josué Aristide Nkezabahizi stated, "J’ai choisi de me lancer dans l’entrepreneuriat pour aider mes deux petits frères à poursuivre leurs études." The farm serves as his primary business operation.
Expanding Agricultural and Livestock Operations
Josué Aristide Nkezabahizi manages a workforce consisting of 13 permanent employees and 50 daily laborers engaged during the cropping season. The farm operation also integrates livestock beyond swine, maintaining seven dairy cows of Sahiwal and Friesian breeds.
Local resident Abel Nzobonayo noted the broader impact of such economic activities on the youth in the area. According to Abel Nzobonayo, "Cette initiative permet aux enfants de cette localité de se concentrer sur leurs études et d’apprendre avec courage, vision et détermination, dans un esprit de saine compétition." These staffing levels and animal stocks support the ongoing development of the Gitanga site as the agricultural project continues to scale its production capacity.
Economic Impact and Market Success
Josué Aristide Nkezabahizi generates revenue exceeding 50 million Burundian francs through the sale of 30 pigs in Bujumbura. These transactions represent a significant component of the financial returns derived from his livestock operations. By accessing the market in Bujumbura, he secures higher returns for his improved pig breeds compared to local sales within Gitanga. This consistent income stream supports the ongoing expansion of his agricultural venture and the maintenance of his herd. The earnings allow Nkezabahizi to sustain his broader business objectives and provide resources for his employees. His ability to transport and sell livestock at this scale demonstrates the commercial potential of his farm in the current regional economy.
Community Development and Future Aspirations
Josué Aristide Nkezabahizi expanded his professional reach by establishing a farm located in the zone of Buhiga, within the commune of Karusi in the province of Gitega. Beyond his livestock operations, he cultivates more than 2.5 hectares of land dedicated to maize, soybeans, and other food crops.
Community engagement remains a priority for the farmer, who recently donated nine female piglets to the top nine students at the Gitanga Fundamental School. This contribution aims to support local academic achievement. Providence Nizigama, a resident of Gitanga, observed the broader influence of these actions, stating, "Cet entrepreneur a servi de leçon à la population en montrant qu’il est possible de pratiquer un élevage moderne et rentable."
Local livestock production has experienced significant growth across the area. Thaddée Nteziryayo, the veterinarian of the Gitega hill, noted the shift in regional farming trends. According to Thaddée Nteziryayo, "Le nombre de porcs est en forte augmentation. Actuellement, nous comptons plus de 600 porcs de race améliorée élevés par des particuliers sur toute la colline Gitanga." These figures reflect an increasing trend in the adoption of improved pig breeds among individual farmers in the vicinity. The integration of modern agricultural practices and the expansion of crop cultivation continue to define the development of the Gitanga landscape.
