Rwanda’s livestock sharing model transforms rural livelihoods

RWANDA – A livestock-sharing project in Rwanda is enabling poor rural households to turn animals into income, food, and savings, changing the way communities approach farming.

The USD 45.6 million Partnership for Resilient and Inclusive Small Livestock Markets (PRISM) has already supported 23,096 households in 15 districts, far exceeding its initial target of 9,827 households.

The five-year program, running from 2021 to 2026, is funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) in partnership with the Government of Rwanda and Heifer International.

PRISM uses a simple model: farmers receive livestock, such as 10 chickens or a sow, along with training and membership in a Self-Help Group (SHG). When the animals produce offspring, the farmers pass an agreed number, such as 10 chicks or two piglets, to another household.

In some cases, they later receive goats or sheep, and the process continues, spreading benefits to more families.

As of March 2025, farmers in the program had passed on 63,098 chickens, 3,659 pigs, 10,617 goats, and 2,378 sheep. A total of 1,164 SHGs have been formed, giving farmers access to technical training, financial literacy, and group savings.

Together, they have saved USD 734,724, which many have reinvested in livestock, health insurance, land, or home improvements.

Building markets and safeguarding livelihoods

PRISM is not only about giving animals. The program has built 10 small pig slaughterhouses, 15 livestock markets, and 15 veterinary clinics. It has also enrolled 168,903 chickens and 4,021 pigs in the national agricultural insurance scheme, protecting farmers from losses caused by disease and other risks.

These investments have boosted local enterprises in animal feed production, chicken brooding, pig fattening, and egg sales. Farmers now have more reliable ways to sell their products and earn steady income.

The IFAD mid-term review shows that PRISM households have increased their incomes by 19.5% since 2021, compared to 11.8% for non-participants.

Sales of animals have doubled, and manure sales have risen by 66%. Nutrition has improved too: households eating at least two meals a day rose from 44% to 65%, and 96% of beneficiaries reported better diets.

The project’s influence has reached beyond its members. Inspired by its results, 1,178 non-participating households have started keeping livestock, often choosing hardy Sasso chicken breeds.

Claudine, a farmer from Rutsiro District, said her flock grew from 10 to over 150 chickens: “You don’t only milk cows, you can milk chicken!”

With more than a year left, PRISM’s model continues to spread. The program’s blend of livestock support, training, savings, and market links is creating lasting change in Rwanda’s small livestock sector.

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