From January 19–22, 2025, an exposure visit to Rwanda was organized under ADRA’s TERAI Project, with support from ADRA UK and the Royal Jersey Agriculture and Horticulture Society (RJAHS). The visit aimed to provide the Nepal delegation with a detailed understanding of the national implementation and functioning of the Interherd+ software for dairy Management Information Systems (MIS) development.
The delegation from Nepal comprised:
- Dr. Surya Prasad Poudel, Joint Secretary, MOALD
- Dr. Sulochana Shrestha, Deputy Director General, DLS
- Kabir Ratna Sthapit, Livelihood Team Leader, ADRA Nepal
- Sharad Adhikari, Project Coordinator, TERAI Project, ADRA Nepal
Highlights of the Visit
National Animal Genetic Improvement Center (NAGIC)
The team visited the National Animal Genetic Improvement Center (NAGIC) in Songa, under the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resource Development Board (RAB). During the visit, the Interherd+ and Intertrace software systems were demonstrated, showcasing their application in animal and milk recording, as well as semen tracking and distribution. Discussions with Dr. Jean Claude Ndorimana, Director General, and Dr. Solange Uwituze, Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI), provided valuable insights into Rwanda’s livestock data management systems at the national level.
The team also observed crossbreeding programs involving local Inyambo cattle and Jersey/Holstein breeds, as well as quality semen production using bulls from embryo transfers.
Community-Level Dairy Development Programs
Visits to dairy development projects in the Gicumbi and Bugesera districts highlighted community-driven initiatives implemented by RJAHS and Ripple Effect, funded by Jersey Overseas Aid (JOA). These programs demonstrated low-cost, scalable technologies for cattle sheds, forage, and fodder. They also showcased improved AI (artificial insemination) and veterinary services, achieved through collaboration with the Rwandan government and capacity building for both private and government technicians.
Lessons for Nepal
The Rwanda visit offered key learnings for advancing Nepal’s livestock sector:
- Dairy MIS Development: The TERAI project can collaborate with the Nepalese government to implement the Interherd+ and Intertrace systems at a national level.
- Semen Production: High-quality semen production can be developed at government farms using genetically superior bulls from TERAI’s embryo transfer initiatives.
- Crossbreeding Programs: Establishing crossbreeding programs at government farms can lead to the production of improved crossbred cattle, benefitting smallholder dairy farmers in Nepal.
This exposure visit has provided invaluable insights and actionable strategies to strengthen livestock development efforts in Nepal, paving the way for innovation and progress in the sector.
