The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources plans to tighten regulations on livestock feed quality as part of a nationwide effort to improve animal health and production, officials said Monday.
Minister Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye told Senators that the amendment to the livestock law will include clear standards for feed management and penalties for noncompliance. The move aims to address widespread concerns about the storage, distribution, and quality of feed across the country.
“The new law will strengthen the management of feed quality and ensure accountability throughout the livestock sector,” Dr. Ndabamenye said during a briefing with Senators on the implementation of Rwanda’s national livestock development strategy.
Senators raised several issues, including inconsistent feed quality and improper storage. Senator Nyinawamwiza Laetitia asked who tests the feed and where, referencing a 2024 Rwanda Governance Board report that showed more than half of citizens receiving livestock services questioned the quality of animal feed.
Senator Mureshyankwano Marie Rose warned that poorly stored or substandard feed could make livestock sick, affecting the quality of meat and dairy products for consumers.
In response, Dr. Ndabamenye said the ministry plans to encourage farmers to hire dedicated veterinarians and animal caretakers. Cooperatives may employ trained veterinarians to serve multiple farmers, improving access to care while ensuring feed quality is regularly monitored.
“This approach will make it easier to test feed quality, improve storage practices, and guarantee proper livestock care,” he said.
From January 20 to 28, Senators will conduct field visits across Rwanda to observe livestock practices, assess how feed is managed, and evaluate programs supporting farmers. Senate President Dr. Kalinda François-Xavier said the visits aim to understand how livestock farming improves citizens’ livelihoods and contributes to national food security.
“Our goal is to see how citizens engage in livestock farming and how proper feed and care boost production, improve living standards, and ensure food security,” he said.
Officials said that by ensuring high-quality feed and proper veterinary care, the initiative is expected to improve livestock health, increase production, and support Rwanda’s economic growth.
