By Rose Mukagahizi
Modern pig slaughterhouses built under the PRISM project in ten districts are receiving strong praise from users, who say they have greatly improved the quality, safety, and hygiene of pork sold on the market.
Daniel Niyonsenga, a pork trader at Nyabugogo, sources his meat from the Rusine modern slaughterhouse built by PRISM in partnership with Rulindo District. From experience, he clearly understands the difference a modern slaughterhouse has made and why selling quality meat matters to both traders and consumers.
“This slaughterhouse has helped us a lot,” he says. “It has stopped the practice of slaughtering pigs in unauthorized places. It is close to us, well organized, and receives pigs from different areas. It has solved a serious problem we used to face, where pork sold at many outlets did not meet basic health standards.”
Niyonsenga explains that inspection at the slaughterhouse is done properly because a trained veterinarian is always present. Sick animals are detected early and rejected, while only healthy pigs are allowed to proceed for slaughter.
“Before this slaughterhouse existed, finding a proper place to slaughter was very difficult,” he recalls. “Some pigs were slaughtered secretly, without inspection, which caused conflicts with authorities. The meat was often unhygienic. Today, everything has changed. The slaughterhouse is clean, workers are professional, and a qualified veterinarian inspects the animals. This has solved many quality and safety concerns.”
He adds with confidence, “When I sell this meat to my customers, I feel at peace because I know it is safe and of good quality.”
Musanze District is also home to a modern slaughterhouse. The Mayor, Nsengimana Claudien, says the PRISM project has supported the district in many ways, especially by investing in key infrastructure like the pig slaughterhouse.
“Before PRISM, we did not have such a facility,” he says. “Pig farming is increasing in our district and neighboring areas, and this slaughterhouse is a long-term investment that will help farmers add more value and earn more from pig production.”
PRISM Project Manager, Joseph Nshokeyinka, explains that the project focuses on improving basic infrastructure, strengthening veterinary services, and ensuring safe meat preparation.
“Before PRISM, there were only one or two known slaughterhouses,” he says. “We built ten modern slaughterhouses across the Southern, Northern, and Western provinces to stop unsafe backyard slaughtering. This ensures food safety, with veterinary approval before meat reaches the market.”
Beyond food safety, the project also encourages farmers to sell slaughtered animals instead of live pigs, allowing them to earn higher incomes and strengthening the entire pork value chain.
PRISM is jointly implemented by the Government of Rwanda and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), through the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI), and implemented by the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB).
