The Rwanda Agricultural and Animal Resources Board (RAB) has halted all livestock movement in Kanama, Nyakiliba, and Kanzenze Sectors of Rubavu District following the confirmation of a Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak in the area.
In a statement released on Tuesday, October 21, RAB announced a temporary ban on the movement and trading of cows, goats, sheep, and pigs, as well as the sale of meat, milk, and animal-related products such as hides and skins. “Farmers with animals showing signs of illness or suspected of infection must isolate them from the rest of the herd and immediately report to the sector veterinary officer,” the statement read.
The agency also directed that all cows aged six months and above within the district be vaccinated every six months, while animals suspected of coming into contact with infected livestock must be separated and placed under quarantine.
RAB further warned that anyone who fails to adhere to the preventive measures will face penalties in line with the law governing the prevention and control of contagious livestock diseases.
Local authorities have been tasked with enforcing strict disinfection and monitoring protocols, ensuring that contact with infected animals is completely restricted to curb the spread of the disease.
