I am Fiston Kayembe, Master student at Regional School of Water . I am happy to share my experience as an intern participating in the knowledge co-creation program« KCCP » from the Japan International Cooperation Agency« JICA ». This experience was enriching and instructive, allowing me to train and exchange with other researchers and professionals in the field of agriculture, more specifically in the context of rice production in sub-Saharan Africa.
During this period, from June 28 to August 11, 2023, I had the chance to be part of a group of eight participants from different countries. We had one representative from Ethiopia, two from Madagascar, two from Uganda, one from Senegal, one from Zambia and myself, representing the Democratic Republic of Congo as a Master's student from the Regional School of Water, specialized in Water, Irrigation and Hydro-agricultural Developments at the University of Kinshasa.
The two weeks of training were intense, covering various topics crucial to improving rice production. We explored in depth topics such as improved rice production techniques, rice plant morphology and physiology, advanced management of rice weeds, pests and diseases, experimental designs and statistical analysis, Sawah production technology, research extension methods, plant selection and development of rice varieties, management of the farmers' irrigation channel and different irrigation systems, as well as the fertilizer and soil nutrition requirements for rice cultivation.
In the individual component of the program, I had the opportunity to work under the supervision of Professor MIYAZAKI from KOCHI University on the design of the research plan. This gave me a concrete view of the research process and the promotion of research products.
In conclusion, I am convinced that the Democratic Republic of Congo has the potential to produce sufficient rice, especially since it has abundant water and arable land resources. With determination and commitment, we can achieve this goal and thus contribute significantly to food self-sufficiency."
