Mastitis remains one of the most significant challenges affecting dairy productivity and milk quality. At the Rwanda One Health Innovation Network (ROHIN), we work with farmers, cooperatives, and animal health professionals to provide hands-on demonstrations that strengthen mastitis prevention and control practices at the farm level.
During these demonstrations, farmers learn practical techniques such as proper udder hygiene, clean milking procedures, regular health checks, and early detection of mastitis symptoms. We also emphasize the importance of using antibiotics responsibly and observing the correct withdrawal periods to prevent antimicrobial residues in milk.
Through interactive training, farmers gain skills in:
- Pre-milking and post-milking hygiene
- Identifying clinical and subclinical mastitis
- Proper milking equipment cleaning and maintenance
- Safe treatment protocols and correct record-keeping
- Ensuring clean, residue-free milk reaches collection centers
By adopting these practices, farmers can significantly reduce mastitis cases, increase milk yield, and improve overall milk quality. ROHIN’s efforts support a healthier dairy sector and contribute to safer food systems under the One Health approach.
Together, we are building stronger, cleaner, and more productive dairy farms across Rwanda.