A recent agricultural and livestock exhibition in Libramont-Chevigny, Belgium, has proven to be an enlightening experience for Rwandan pig farmers. Invited to learn from their European counterparts, the Rwandan delegation discovered new techniques and innovations that could enhance their practices back home.
Jean Claude Shirimpumu, the head of the Rwanda Pig Farmers Association (RPFA), described their participation in the Libramont Agricultural and Livestock Fair (Foire de Libramont-2024) as highly beneficial.
The exhibition, which ran from July 26-29, 2024, provided valuable insights into advanced livestock management and breeding practices.
Shirimpumu and his team observed various methods employed by European farmers, particularly in feeding and breeding livestock to ensure healthy bloodlines. “We learned about the meticulous feeding techniques and breeding strategies used to maintain the quality of livestock,” Shirimpumu noted.
The fair demonstrated the use of high-quality semen and artificial insemination, facilitated by research institutions that prepare and supply these resources to farmers.
Additionally, the European practice of fattening livestock to ensure a steady meat supply and the technology used to preserve meat for up to a year without refrigeration were highlighted as key areas of interest.
Impressed by Rwanda’s advancements, Shirimpumu shared that pig semen in Rwanda is delivered to farmers using drones. “They were very surprised, saying that Rwandans are advanced,” he added.
The Rwandan delegation emphasized the importance of gaining knowledge from their European counterparts.
Understanding livestock care, breeding quality, and other productivity-enhancing factors is crucial for improving their practices.
In Rwanda, several farmers have initiated livestock projects aimed at boosting production and the national economy. One notable project is underway in the Gisagara District. Moreover, there is growing interest from neighboring countries; some Burundians are seeking high-quality pig breeds from Rwanda.
A team of five Rwandans accompanied Shirimpumu to Belgium to learn about European livestock feeding practices. One of the challenges they noted is the quality, quantity, and cost of livestock feed. The scarcity of resources, such as maize, which constitutes 60% of the feed, poses a significant challenge as it is also a staple food for humans.
In response to these challenges, Rwanda’s Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources plans to launch a campaign to promote pork consumption.
The campaign aims to educate people on the benefits of eating pork, encouraging its consumption beyond being just a bar snack. This initiative includes increasing slaughterhouses, pork production, and ensuring an adequate feed supply.
Announced at a meeting that brought together pig farmers, the Ministry, and other stakeholders in livestock development, the campaign aligns with the government’s strategy to ensure that pork meets nutritional standards approved by experts.
Jean Claude Ndorimana, Director-General of Livestock Development, emphasized the government’s commitment to improving meat quality.
The government is prioritizing the development of short-cycle livestock, such as pigs, chickens, and rabbits, for animal protein production, while cows are primarily for milk.
This approach addresses the current insufficiency of cattle to meet meat demand in Rwanda.
The increase in meat-producing animals must be accompanied by the establishment of modern slaughterhouses.
Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente highlighted that livestock production in Rwanda has risen significantly over the past five years, with meat production increasing from over 162,000 tons in 2018/2019 to over 185,000 tons in 2021/2022. This growth is expected to continue as breeding and livestock quality improve.
The insights gained at the Libramont Agricultural and Livestock Fair will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing development and enhancement of Rwanda’s livestock sector.
