The World Food Programme Regional Director, Mustapha Darboe, yesterday hailed the transformation of the former eroded, barren hills of Rukozo and Cyungo in Rulindo District into terraced farmland.

He said this during his visit to a watershed management project in Rulindo, where WFP constructed radical terraces on 240 hectares..

Darboe pointed out that the action was an outstanding example of what is needed to win the fight against hunger based on efforts by local communities.

Irish potatoes, beans, wheat and maize fields occupy the former barren hills.

"Before the reclamation of this barren hill, only 25 percent of the land was cultivated, now the cultivated land stands at 95 percent," Abdoulaye Balde, the WFP Country Director is quoted to have said in a statement.

"The watershed management project contributes to the efforts of fighting against run-off erosion and by doing so, has increased the soil fertility. According to the farmers and local leaders, the project has a huge impact in their community."

The statement further says that some beneficiaries bought land, forestry plots, motorcycles besides paying school fees for their children, medical insurance and improving their housing facilities.

Darboe is in Rwanda since January 31 where he has held talks with government officials and the United Nations resident Coordinator.

Among the various issues discussed is the school feeding programme and how it can involve all the partners.