Rwanda Trains Veterinarians as Farmers Miss Livestock Insurance Claims

Rwanda’s Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board has stepped up training for veterinarians after incomplete reports caused many livestock farmers to lose insurance compensation for dead animals.

The agency said poor documentation during livestock postmortem examinations has been a major reason some farmers fail to receive payouts under the National Agriculture Insurance Scheme, especially in areas affected by frequent animal disease outbreaks such as Nyagatare.

Officials said about 150 livestock insurance claims are rejected each month because veterinary reports often lack clear diagnoses or enough scientific evidence required by insurance companies.

RAB said it has now trained 100 veterinarians and paraveterinarians across the country in livestock loss assessment and postmortem procedures in partnership with Dedicated Agri Services PVT LTD.

Head of animal resources development and disease control at RAB, Fabrice Ndayisenga, said some veterinarians contributed to failed claims because of gaps in professional knowledge, adding that the new training is aimed at improving ethical practice and accurate investigations.

Under the current rules, farmers are expected to report the death of an animal within two hours, while veterinary officers must carry out examinations within four hours and submit reports to insurers within one week.

Officials said delays in reporting by farmers and incomplete reports from veterinarians have both affected the claims process.

RAB also warned that veterinarians whose negligence leads to denied claims or public health risks may face disciplinary action, legal penalties, or be required to compensate affected farmers.