Pig farmers and traders using the modern Byimana pig slaughterhouse, located in Kirengeli Cell, Byimana Sector, Ruhango District, report that it has significantly improved access to high-quality pork compared to the traditional slaughtering methods previously used.
Hildebrand Ntakirutimana, a pork seller from Buriza Village, Mbare Cell, Shyogwe Sector in Muhanga District, stated that the establishment of the slaughterhouse has ensured both the quality and safety of pork.
“Previously, we struggled with diseases like swine fever, which compromised meat quality. People would buy meat without knowing whether it was safe. Now, with inspections in place, there are no health concerns.
The key difference between meat slaughtered using traditional methods and that processed in the slaughterhouse is that the latter undergoes testing, ensuring it is safe and free from health risks such as parasitic infections,” he explained.
He further noted that the slaughterhouse has boosted his confidence in his business, as he now sells certified meat.
“As a meat trader, when authorities inspect you, all you need to do is present a stamped certificate signed by the veterinarian, and there are no issues. When purchasing pork or bringing a pig for slaughter, the meat is stamped and certified, allowing for smooth trade.”
Gatare, another pig farmer, highlighted that the slaughterhouse has increased their earnings compared to selling live pigs.
“This slaughterhouse, built by PRISM, has been a great help. We no longer have to negotiate prices; instead, we bring our pigs here and are paid based on their weight,” he said.
He also emphasized the improved meat quality due to proper inspections, unlike in the past when slaughtering was done on makeshift platforms.
One of the slaughterhouse workers shared how the facility has provided employment opportunities, enabling him to improve his livelihood.
“Before, when I couldn’t find casual work, I would spend my days idle with no income. But working here has changed my life. I can now sustain myself, and I have even started small-scale farming with five chickens and two pigs. My salary also allows me to save for future investments,” he said.
Regarding quality assurance, the Rwanda Inspectorate, Competition, and Consumer Protection Authority (RICA) has trained veterinarians to inspect animals before slaughter to ensure that the meat meets health and safety standards.
Niyonsaba Eric, the manager and veterinarian at the Byimana modern pig slaughterhouse, who was trained by RICA, highlighted the facility’s benefits for both farmers and traders.
“The slaughterhouse enables the production of high-quality meat and provides farmers with a safe slaughtering service. Traders also receive certified meat at RWF 3,500 per kilogram, unlike before when slaughtering was done on open platforms, exposing meat to contamination,” he stated.
Niyonsaba explained that upon arrival, pigs undergo health checks, including temperature measurement and heart rate assessment, before being kept overnight with only water to rest.
This process enhances meat quality and allows for thorough preliminary inspections before the meat is used after 24 hours.
“When a pig arrives for slaughter, it undergoes preparation and examination to ensure the meat is safe. The animal spends the night at the facility, allowing for initial health assessments before slaughtering the next day. We begin by inspecting internal organs before checking the meat for any diseases,” he elaborated.
He added that the slaughtering service costs RWF 2,000 per pig, and traders receive a certificate verifying the meat’s origin and quality.
The facility has the capacity to slaughter 50 pigs per day but currently operates at an average of 20 pigs daily, amounting to approximately 500 pigs per month.
The Byimana modern pig slaughterhouse was constructed by the PRISM project in 2023 and later handed over to the district, which leased it to a private contractor. The facility employs 12 staff members, including six butchers, and also operates an in-house butchery.
PRISM project manager, Joseph Nshokeyinka, stated that the project aims to reduce poverty among vulnerable households by providing them with small livestock for farming.
He said: “The goal of the project is to help 26,355 vulnerable rural families lift themselves out of poverty by providing them with small livestock. The project, which spans five years, started in March 2021 and will conclude on September 30, 2026.
Additionally, the project is constructing essential infrastructure such as slaughterhouses and markets, ensuring that beneficiaries have access to facilities that enhance the value of their livestock products.
Farmers are also being organized into groups where they receive mindset transformation training with support from HEIFER. They are also trained in livestock management. So far, 150 facilitators have been trained, and 1,170 groups have been established, achieving 98% of the target.
In the Southern Province, the PRISM project operates in the districts of Gisagara, Huye, Nyamagabe, Nyaruguru, and Ruhango. In the Northern Province, it operates in all districts: Burera, Gakenke, Gicumbi, Musanze, and Rulindo. In the Western Province, it operates in the districts of Nyamasheke, Karongi, Rutsiro, Nyabihu, and Ngororero.
Written by Emma-Marie Umurerwa
Iriba.news@gmail.com
