Rwanda is aiming for a significant boost in meat production, targeting a 20% increase by 2029 under its fifth Strategic Plan for Agriculture Transformation (PSTA5). This ambitious goal, outlined by the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), seeks to elevate annual meat production from 207,097 tonnes in 2023/24 to 247,223 tonnes by 2028/29.
While the country achieved 96.3% of its meat production target in the previous year, challenges such as drought and high feed costs significantly impacted output. To overcome these hurdles, the government is implementing a multi-pronged strategy, focusing on enhancing breeding programs for small livestock, improving feed availability, and promoting sustainable farming practices.
“Key activities to support this goal include enhancing small stock production through the establishment of breeding centers and strengthening artificial insemination programs for pigs,” stated Solange Uwituze, Deputy Director General of Animal Resources Development at RAB.
Beef currently dominates Rwanda’s meat production, accounting for 35% of the total. However, the government is strategically shifting its focus towards poultry and pork production.
“Considering Rwanda’s small land area and increasing population, the land available for meat production will gradually be limited,” explained Andrew Butare, Chairperson of the Rwanda Poultry Industry Association. “Poultry farming offers a more efficient use of land, with a 50-square-meter farm capable of producing a tonne of chicken meat in just two months.”
The pork industry is also poised for significant growth, driven by advancements in breeding technologies, including drone-delivered swine semen, and a growing emphasis on integrating pork into Rwandan diets.
“The Rwanda Pig Farmers’ Association has been actively campaigning to promote pork consumption beyond traditional settings, encouraging families to include it in their daily meals,” said Jean Claude Shirimpumu, chairperson of the association.
However, challenges remain. High feed costs, particularly for poultry, continue to be a major concern. To address this, the government is promoting increased local production of maize and soybeans, key components of animal feed. Furthermore, the establishment of silos to store grain during harvest seasons will help stabilize prices and ensure consistent feed availability.
While Rwanda boasts successful local broiler production, the country still relies on imports for layer chicks. Developing a robust local supply of day-old chicks is crucial for long-term sustainability and reducing reliance on imports.
Despite these challenges, Rwanda’s commitment to modernizing its livestock sector, coupled with innovative approaches to breeding, feed production, and market development, positions the country for a significant increase in meat production and a more prosperous future for its farmers.
