Pineapple production steps up in Burundi

The pineapple juice production plant that we told you about recently has been serving three more farmer’s associations who are all cultivating pineapples together on land that has been lent to them.

One of these is Terimbere which means ‘to be developed’ was set up in 2005 by Sabimana Concilie and has 27 members who farm six hectares in Rutana. Sabimana lives at Shoti Hill, Rutana province, with her husband and five children. 

Sabimana says that the ‘Terimbere’ association does more than help members by providing an income; working together is a means members offer each other mutual support. “Being together is building peace,” said Sabimana. 

“We are members of the association, not only because of the material or financial support we get from it, but because it is a way to remain united. It has strengthened our solidarity, it’s also a space for us to share our personal experiences.” 

With the income from juice production they hope for the association will grow and that members will be able to secure their own houses and land. 

“We hope that with the income generated by these activities, members of our association will be able to access some funds for immediate needs like medical fees,” said Sabimana. Association member Constance Nahigombeye said: “We’d like to say thank you to Cord. Before, we felt like we’d been abandoned, forgotten about. When Cord started supporting us we realised that someone was prepared to help us after all! 

“But it’s more than that - now we have the ability to produce and sell pineapple juice, Cord has given us something that will continue to help us in the future.” 

Pineapple facts

• Pineapples originate from the Caribbean 
• Each pineapple plant takes about 6 to twelve months initially to produce its first fruit
• Once one pineapple is cut the plant will produce another and will continue for a number of years.
• Each plant grows to half a metre tall
• Raw pineapple is an excellent source of vitamin C