Renatha Nyirandikubwimana, a resident of Nkotsi Sector in Musanze District, tends to her small animal farm comprising two goats, two sheep, and a cow. However, ensuring the health of her livestock, particularly her cow, has been a challenge due to the absence of nearby veterinary clinics.
For instance, she recalls a crucial moment when her cow got sick with Brucellosis and the panic when the local veterinarian was unavailable. Luckily, a neighbour’s understanding of traditional remedies saved the cow from a serious situation, highlighting the importance of accessible veterinary services.
Responding to such community needs, the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, in collaboration with the Project for Inclusive Small Livestock Markets (PRISM) funded by IFAD, inaugurated a veterinary clinic in her locality, easing access to vital healthcare services for her livestock and fellow farmers. This initiative relieves Nyirandikubwimana and others like her, knowing that help is now within reach in case of livestock health crises.
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Reflecting on the significance of this development, Nyirandikubwimana remarked, "I was deeply concerned about losing the cow gifted to me through the Girinka programme, but now, with the vet clinic nearby, I feel more secure. Its presence has been a true blessing for me and my fellow farmers. We are now committed to promptly seeking medical assistance for any future illnesses among our livestock.”
Situated in Bikara cell, Kiruhura village, Nkotsi Sector, this veterinary clinic is one of 15 established across different districts to enhance animal healthcare quality and bolster livestock productivity and profitability, as part of the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources’ initiative.
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Operating seven days a week, the clinic offers a comprehensive array of services, including disease prevention and emergency care for livestock. Stocked with essential medicines like Ivermax, Nilzash, and Albendazole Bolus, among others, the clinic, led by veterinarian Odile Umuhire, has already witnessed a notable improvement in the health and welfare of local livestock since its inception.
Umuhire affirmed, "Equipped with medical and laboratory facilities provided by the PRISM project, we serve farmers in Muko, Nkotsi, and Muhoza sectors. We extend our services to neighbouring areas whenever possible, depending on our capacity.”
Challenges and future prospects
Despite the clinic’s success in enhancing livestock health, challenges persist. Umuhire identified a lack of awareness among some farmers about the importance of veterinary care, hindering preventive measures. Additionally, sourcing specific medications, such as those for brucellosis, remains a hurdle, as they are only available through specialised channels.
Dr Fabrice Ndayisenga, Head of the Department of Animal Resources Innovation and Technology Transfer at RAB, emphasised the critical role of private veterinarians and urged them to optimise available resources to ensure optimal animal care. He emphasised the importance of maintaining engagement with the private sector to sustain the momentum of improving animal health outcomes.
According to figures from PRISM, a total of Rwf 510,396,226 has been invested in constructing and equipping the 15 veterinary clinics across various districts, including Ruhango, Huye, Nyamagabe, Karongi, Rulindo, Gicumbi, Musanze, Nyabihu, Ngororero, Rutsiro, Gisagara, Nyaruguru, Burera, Gakenke, and Nyamasheke.