The Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board has placed the districts of Bugesera District and Rusizi District under quarantine following an outbreak of a deadly pig disease known as African Swine Fever.
The decision, announced on April 10, 2026, comes after the disease killed 61 pigs—seven in Bugesera and 54 in Rusizi. Authorities have since suspended the movement and trade of pigs from the affected areas to prevent further spread.
According to Dr. Fabrice Ndayisenga, head of livestock and animal disease control at RAB, the quarantine was necessary because the disease spreads quickly and has neither treatment nor vaccine.
“We decided to isolate the affected areas, especially Rusizi. In Bugesera, the outbreak was limited to a single farm, and control measures have been effective. Movement will resume once we confirm the disease is no longer present,” he explained.
Authorities clarified that pig slaughter at licensed facilities will continue, but only for animals sourced from non-affected areas. Pigs originating from Bugesera and Rusizi are currently not permitted in the market.
Although African Swine Fever does not infect humans, officials warn that handling or slaughtering infected pigs can contribute to spreading the virus to other regions.
RAB has called on farmers to strengthen hygiene practices to protect their livestock. Key recommendations include: Avoid feeding pigs with leftover food from restaurants, Maintain strict cleanliness in pig farms, Limit unnecessary visitors to farms, Use disinfectants at farm entrances.
Officials say the outbreak could be contained within a month if these measures are strictly followed.
African Swine Fever affects both domestic and wild pigs. Common symptoms include: High fever (above 40°C), Loss of appetite, Weakness and difficulty walking, Skin redness on ears, abdomen, and limbs.
The outbreak highlights ongoing challenges in livestock disease control, as authorities work to protect farmers’ livelihoods and prevent wider economic losses.