The Rwandan government has officially inaugurated a US$4 million animal feed factory in the Masoro industrial zone, a significant development aimed at supporting local livestock farmers.
This facility will produce essential animal feed for pigs, chickens, and cows.
Pig farmers in Rwanda have welcomed the opening of the Gorilla Feed Factory, although they urge for the feed to be priced affordably.
Jean Claude Shirimpumu, a local pig farmer, highlighted the previous struggles with feed shortages that led to rising prices. “We requested this so we could have enough food that doesn’t cost us too much,” he stated, expressing optimism about the new factory’s impact.
The factory, valued at US$4 million, is expected to alleviate the ongoing feed crisis by producing various types of feed tailored to different stages of livestock development, including piglets, growing pigs, and breeding sows.
Currently, the cost per kilogram of pig feed ranges from Rwf 450 to Rwf 500, but this can fluctuate based on location and distance from the purchase point.
Anne Karemera, who raises over 12,000 layer hens in the Gasabo District, also expressed her support for the initiative.
She noted that unreliable feed sources had previously affected her hens’ productivity. “But now that the factory is here, I am confident,” she said, expecting a production rate increase from 75% to 95%.
Dr. Sang Ju Park, General Manager of Gorilla Feed Factory, acknowledged past challenges in ensuring feed quality due to inadequate technology. With the new factory, he indicated they could produce 20 tons of feed per hour, amounting to 200 tons daily.
Dr. Fabrice Ndayisenga from the National Agricultural Research and Development Agency (RAB) emphasized that this factory will help farmers tackle feed shortages and improve livestock health.
Currently, six factories in Rwanda produce livestock feed, with the Gorilla Feed factory joining this vital industry.
In alignment with Rwanda’s sustainable planning for meat production, projections indicate that pigs will contribute 48% of total meat consumption, chickens 32%, and cows 14%.
The Gorilla Feed factory represents a significant step forward for Rwanda’s agricultural landscape. With a focus on affordability and quality, the facility is set to transform livestock farming, ultimately contributing to the country’s food security and economic growth.
