Powering Livestock Services: Motorbikes Transform Veterinary Reach in Gakenke

See how Gakenke’s veterinary professionals are improving animal health and farmer support with new motorbikes funded by IFAD.

By Libos NDAYISHIMIYE

In a major stride towards strengthening livestock services in Rwanda’s Gakenke District, animal health professionals working under the Rwanda Dairy Development Project Phase 2 (RDDP2) have been equipped with brand-new motorcycles to enhance their mobility and efficiency in delivering veterinary services to dairy farmers.

The initiative, funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and implemented by the Government of Rwanda in partnership with Heifer Rwanda, is designed to boost the dairy sector through timely, professional, and accessible animal health services, especially in rural communities where farmers often struggle to receive prompt assistance.

The handover ceremony took place in Gakenke, where several motorbikes were distributed to veterinary officers serving in the RDDP2 zones of operation. The event was attended by local leaders, representatives from the implementing partners, and the beneficiaries themselves, who welcomed the support with gratitude and high expectations.

Mayor Vestine Mukandayisenga of Gakenke District called on the veterinary service providers to use the motorcycles responsibly and to increase their service coverage across the district.
“These motorcycles are a response to the long-standing challenge of limited access to timely veterinary services,” she said. “Now it’s your responsibility to make the most of them by reaching every farmer, improving animal health, and ultimately increasing dairy productivity.”

The RDDP2 initiative targets youth and women, supports dairy farmers with improved breeds, facilitates access to markets, and promotes modern livestock management techniques. Central to its success is the availability of competent veterinary professionals who can follow up on animal health, vaccinations, artificial insemination, and disease control — all of which require timely mobility.

Jean Claude Nzamwita, one of the beneficiaries, underlined how transformative this support is to his work. “Before receiving this motorbike, I had to rely on irregular public transport or walk long distances to reach remote farmers,” he explained. “Now, I can respond to calls within minutes and offer regular follow-ups. This is going to improve both the quality and quantity of milk production.”

Aline Mukarugira, a young female veterinarian, said the motorcycle empowers her to compete equally in a male-dominated sector and serve more clients with confidence. “This isn’t just about speed; it’s about professionalism,” she noted. “It’s about showing women can thrive in veterinary work, reach isolated farms, and bring value to the community. I’m now more determined to make an impact.”

Dairy farmers from the community also shared their excitement, expressing hope that this support will eliminate service delays they have long faced.

Anastasie Nyiranzabahimana, a dairy farmer from Gashenyi, said: “We used to wait for days when our cows were sick or needed artificial insemination. By the time help arrived, it was sometimes too late. Now that vets have motorcycles, I believe our problems will be solved faster.”

Théophile Habimana, another local farmer, echoed her sentiment: “These motorbikes are a blessing. We expect immediate responses to our calls now, which means healthier cows, more milk, and better income. We’re really grateful.”

Beyond Gakenke, this model is being replicated in other districts where RDDP2 operates, as part of Rwanda’s broader strategy to build a resilient, inclusive, and market-oriented livestock sector that contributes to food security and poverty reduction.

The distribution of motorcycles is not just a logistical upgrade it’s a strategic investment in people, productivity, and prosperity.