The Rwanda Animal Resource Development Authority (Rarda) has embarked on a campaign to train people how to inseminate cattle throughout the country. The move is intended to increase hybrid and exotic cattle in Rwanda. It also comes at a time Rarda is producing bull semen. Veterinary experts say when a Jersey and the local breed are crossbred, the resultant breed can produce 10 litres of milk per day. But a pure local breed produces only 1 litre of milk per day. Dr. Otto Vianney Muhinda, the officer in charge of insemination at Rarda, said 450 people have been trained. They have been attached to each sector in the country. “Some sectors have one while others have two or three skilled people,” he said. Dr. Muhinda also explained that it is government decision and policy to reduce on the locally bred cows and have more exotic and hybrid ones with a high beef and milk production. Adding that it is an Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS) since farmers will have more milk and beef for sale. It is hoped that with more hybrid cattle, the country will realise an increase in milk production – thus leading to self sufficiency and the development of the dairy industry. With increased milk production, nutritional needs of the rural population will be met. The Rarda campaign follows a cattle breeding joint venture programme between the Royal Jersey Agricultural and Horticultural Society and the Government. Ends
