Events

4 Mar, 2025

Guy Amos0 commentsMarch 4, 2025Agriculture, Dairy Farming, Events

Understanding the Signs of Estrus for a Successful Heat Detection and AI Program in Pigs

Effective heat detection and artificial insemination (AI) in pigs require precise timing and keen observation of estrus signs. Missing or misinterpreting these signs can lead to unsuccessful breeding, economic loss, and lower productivity. This article explores the critical aspects of estrus detection and AI timing to maximize conception rates.

Preliminary Signs of Estrus

The early indicators of estrus appear 24-48 hours before the standing heat period. Recognizing these signs allows farmers to prepare for timely insemination:

Vulva reddening – Increased blood flow makes the vulva appear more reddish.
Vulva swelling – A noticeable increase in size due to hormonal changes.
Mucus discharge – A clear or slightly cloudy mucus may be seen around the vulva.
Mounting behavior – The pig may attempt to mount pen mates but will not tolerate being mounted.
Increased vocalization – The sow or gilt becomes more vocal, calling for a boar.
Reduced appetite – Some pigs experience a temporary loss of interest in food.

⚠️ Important Note: Do not inseminate pigs during this phase. Many AI failures result from incorrect timing due to misreading these preliminary signs as standing heat. Instead, closely monitor behavior for further estrus development.

Standing Estrus Period (Optimal Breeding Time)

This phase lasts approximately 36-48 hours, during which ovulation occurs, making it the most critical time for successful AI. Key signs include:

Seeking the boar – The pig actively moves toward a heat-checking boar.
Standing reflex – The pig will stand still when pressure is applied to its back, whether from a boar, pen mate, or human.
Consistent behavior – Only pigs exhibiting a solid standing reflex should be inseminated.
Shorter estrus duration in gilts – Gilts typically display standing heat for 24-36 hours, while sows may show signs for 36-48 hours.

🐖 AI Timing and Ovulation:

Ovulation usually occurs 32-48 hours after the onset of standing heat.
Sperm requires 4-6 hours for capacitation before fertilizing the egg.
Eggs remain viable for 6-10 hours after ovulation.
Sperm is viable for 18-24 hours inside the reproductive tract.
Insemination too early or too late reduces conception rates. The ideal approach is to inseminate midway through standing estrus, with a second dose 12-24 hours later.

Signs of Estrus Ending

Estrus signs gradually decline, indicating that the optimal breeding window is closing:

Loss of standing reflex – The pig will no longer stand when pressure is applied to the back.
Mounting behavior returns – The pig may begin mounting others again.
Lower receptiveness to boars – The pig shows less interest in boar presence.

⚠️ Avoid Common Mistakes:

Skipping heat detection checks – Pigs should be checked for estrus at least twice daily.
Inseminating at the start or end of standing heat – Increases the risk of missed ovulation.
Wasting AI doses – Giving two doses in 4-8 hours is ineffective. A 12-24 hour interval between doses is optimal.

By following these heat detection and AI timing principles, farmers can significantly improve conception rates and overall herd productivity.

📞 Need expert AI support? Contact Vision Agribusiness Farm Ltd today!

22 Feb, 2025

Guy Amos0 commentsFebruary 22, 2025Agriculture, Contract Farming Model, Dairy Farming, Economy Solution, Events

Maximizing Pig Production: The Key to Large and Healthy Litters

At Vision Agribusiness Farm Ltd (VAF), we are committed to advancing modern pig farming practices to ensure high productivity and sustainability. One of the core indicators of successful pig farming is the ability of sows to produce large, healthy litters. Through improved breeding techniques, optimal nutrition, and enhanced healthcare, we have consistently achieved high piglet survival rates and increased farm profitability.

Breeding for Success

The genetic potential of pigs plays a crucial role in determining litter size and piglet health. At VAF, we utilize selective breeding strategies, ensuring that only high-performing sows and boars contribute to our breeding programs. This approach enhances fertility, strengthens piglet immunity, and results in uniform litters with strong growth potential.

Optimal Nutrition for Mother and Piglets

Proper feeding is vital for both the sow and her piglets. Our specialized diet formulations provide essential nutrients that support reproductive health and fetal development. Pregnant sows receive high-energy, protein-rich feed, while lactating sows are supplemented with additional nutrients to ensure adequate milk production for their piglets.

Advanced Healthcare and Biosecurity

Maintaining excellent health conditions for pigs is a priority at VAF. We implement strict biosecurity measures, regular veterinary check-ups, and timely vaccinations to prevent diseases that could impact piglet survival. These efforts result in stronger litters and a reduced mortality rate among newborn piglets.

Providing a Comfortable Farrowing Environment

The farrowing phase is critical for piglet survival. We use modern farrowing pens designed to offer warmth, protection, and easy access to the sow’s milk. These facilities reduce piglet crushing incidents and enhance their early-stage development.

Why It Matters

With our innovative pig farming practices, we not only improve production efficiency but also contribute to the growing demand for high-quality pork. By prioritizing proper breeding, nutrition, healthcare, and housing, VAF ensures that farmers can achieve more profitable and sustainable pig farming operations.

Interested in learning more? Visit our website or contact us to see how VAF can support your pig farming success!

6 Nov, 2024

Guy Amos0 commentsNovember 6, 2024Agriculture, Contract Farming Model, Dairy Farming, Economy Solution, Events, General News

Embassy of the Kingdom of Belgium and Enabel Delegation Visits Vision Agribusiness Farm Ltd – Showcasing Innovation in Pig Farming on the 6th November 2024

Today, Vision Agribusiness Farm Ltd proudly welcomed visitors from Embassy of the Kingdom of Belgium and Enabel. The visit highlighted our commitment to bio-security and innovative pig farming practices, which contribute to Rwanda’s agricultural development

The first thing to do as a farm visitor is to disinfect yourself to ensure bio-security

Emphasis on Bio-Security

Upon arrival, our guests experienced our strict bio-security protocols, beginning with a disinfectant footbath. This practice reinforces our commitment to maintaining livestock health and ensuring quality production standards.

A farm visitor must be well covered and disinfected to ensure bio-security

Exploring Innovative Farming Techniques

Our CEO provided an in-depth overview of our farm’s practices, including artificial insemination methods that enhance breeding quality and efficiency. These sustainable practices were of particular interest to the delegation, who appreciated our forward-thinking approach.

Visitor Testimonials

As the tour concluded, our visitors from the Embassy of the Kingdom of Belgium and Enabel shared their positive feedback. They expressed enthusiasm for our methods and noted the potential for future collaboration to support Rwanda’s agricultural sector.

4 Aug, 2024

Guy Amos0 commentsAugust 4, 2024Agriculture, Economy Solution, Events, General News

VAF Revolutionizing Pig Farming in Rwanda

A facilitator explaining the Artificial Insemination technique

The second day of the 17th Agrishow 2024 in Murindi, Kigali, proved to be an even greater success for Vision Agribusiness Farm (VAF). Our booth was inundated with visitors eager to learn about our innovative approaches to modern pig farming.

A central topic of interest was pig feeding, with farmers seeking in-depth knowledge on optimal dietary components and quantities for maximizing pig growth and productivity. VAF’s experts were on hand to provide comprehensive information on balanced nutrition and its vital role in swine health.

Beyond pig nutrition, visitors were keen to understand VAF’s holistic approach to agriculture, which encompasses livestock diversification, including poultry, and crop cultivation. Our commitment to supporting farmers in building sustainable and profitable agricultural systems resonated strongly with the audience.

VAF also showcased its expertise in modern reproductive technologies. Visitors were introduced to the advanced techniques of artificial insemination employed at our farm for semen collection. Our innovative semen delivery service, utilizing Zipline drones, to reach farmers across the country generated significant interest. This service ensures timely access to high-quality semen, a crucial factor in improving livestock genetics.

Moreover, VAF’s participation in the La foire de Libramont 2024 in Belgium has yielded substantial benefits. By immersing ourselves in global agricultural best practices, we have acquired valuable knowledge in modernized pig farming and technology integration. Notably, we have successfully transferred some of these learnings to local farmers, contributing to the overall advancement of Rwanda’s agricultural sector.

As the Agrishow continues, VAF remains steadfast in its mission to share knowledge, foster partnerships, and drive agricultural progress in Rwanda and beyond.

8 Sep, 2023

Guy Amos0 commentsSeptember 8, 2023Agriculture, Contract Farming Model, Economy Solution, Events, General News, Pig Breeding, Professional Training & Project Study

The way to the global pig farming standard

The development of pig farming in Rwanda has seen significant progress through innovative practices such as cross-breeding. This approach has revolutionized the swine industry in the country, enhancing pig breeds for better productivity and disease resistance. My visit to an agricultural exhibition in Mozambique, where I also had the privilege of meeting President Filipe Nyusi , provided valuable insights into these advancements.

One key takeaway from the exhibition in Mozambique was the emphasis on selective breeding. By strategically cross-breeding pig breeds with desirable traits, Rwandan farmers have achieved improved meat quality, higher growth rates, and increased litter sizes. This approach not only ensures better food production but also supports local livelihoods.

Another noteworthy concept from the exhibition was the adoption of sustainable farming practices. Farmers in Mozambique showcased their commitment to eco-friendly pig farming methods, which align perfectly with Rwanda’s dedication to environmental conservation. These lessons in sustainability and responsible animal husbandry have been embraced by Rwandan farmers, contributing to the long-term viability of the industry.

Furthermore, the exhibition underscored the importance of collaboration between governments and local farmers. President Nyusi’s presence highlighted the commitment of Mozambique’s leadership to supporting the agricultural sector. This collaborative spirit has also been witnessed in Rwanda, where the government actively engages with farmers to provide training, access to resources, and market opportunities.

The development of pig farming in Rwanda through cross-breeding and the adoption of sustainable practices is a testament to the agricultural innovation that drives progress in Africa. These lessons from Mozambique, combined with Rwanda’s proactive approach, are transforming pig farming into a cornerstone of food security and economic growth in the region.

23 Jul, 2023

Guy Amos0 commentsJuly 23, 2023Agriculture, Events, General News

Day 3 in the 16th AGRISHOW 2023

Day 3 in the 16th AGRISHOW 2023.

The vision Agribusiness Farm ltd is honored to announce 16th National agriculture show to be held from 20th to 29th July 2023 at Mulindi / Gasabo Show Ground.

The third day in 16^th AGRISHOW was the exhibition day. The day on which the different people with different ideas come to visit our stand for clarification. Some with questions others with inadequate understandings about pig farming. As we did yesterday, we are also going answer the questions that were asked by the visitors.

Let’s first show you the most frequent questions:

Tell us about heat detection at your farm.
Tell us about the best criteria for mating.

Time to also display answers:

We at the Vision Agribusiness Farm we normally use the standard means of heat detection and handling. By these means we choose to follow the following details:

Standing heat

The display of standing heat (“estrus”) is a physical expression of the female’s release of oxytocin, increased levels of estrogen, state of ovulation and receptivity to mating. Oxytocin is a naturally occurring hormone which when released causes strong pulsing contractions of the uterus which aid in transport of the semen. The wavelike pulsations also cause strong rigidity of the muscles, a response commonly known as “standing heat.” This standing response allows the female to withstand the boar’s weight during breeding.

The expression and duration of estrus is affected by many factors, including age/parity, season/temperature, genetic composition, body condition, nutrition and previous exposure to a boar. The display of estrus typically lasts no more than 48 hours in gilts, and 38 to 64 hours in sows, although there is variation between farms and individual females. The “locked up” periods of standing heat last 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the level of stimulation received, the energy reserves of the female, and the time elapsed since the last standing heat and the subsequent refractory period. Ovulation will occur from 36 to 42 hours after the onset of estrus- sooner in gilts than sows.

Signs of Heat

There are various conditions that the female can display which indicate the onset and/or presence of heat. Not all conditions are present in all females. Gilts may display characteristics differently than sows. Some characteristics may be more indicative of proestrus conditions, the period immediately before estrus: redness and swelling of the vulva, off-feed, rooting or mounting penmates, vocalization, etc. More prominent signs will be more present during estrus.

- Swollen, reddened vulva (proestrus)
- Vocalization/barking
- Mounting penmates
- Heightened activity level/restlessness
- Perked or twitching ears
- Sticky, viscous secretion of the vulva
- Rigid back and legs; “locked up”

2. Talking about the best criteria for mating, at Vision Agribusiness Farm we actually put emphasis on two main factors that are:

The weight of the sow
The age of the sow

The weight of the sow matters because before we decide on the mating of a given sow. We first make sure that the sow at least has 70kg. This set weight is to ensure that the sow be capable of carrying the entire uterus with the whole weight of the fetuses inside. This weight is enough for a sow to be able to carry the normal weight of the uterus. That’s why we always take care about the weight of the sow.
The significance of the sow’s age. The sow’s age because it helps to decide on the maturity of the sow, hence facilitates the decision of mating period. At Vision Agribusiness Farm, the sows that we set for mating must have at least seven months since their birthday even thought there may be some cases in which one may show sights of heat after five months after the birth but we do not consider that occurrence, we keep considering the normal schedule and wait for them to reach at least six and a half months.

22 Jul, 2023

Guy Amos0 commentsJuly 22, 2023Agriculture, Events, General News, Professional Training & Project Study

Day 2 in the 16th AGRISHOW 2023

The vision Agribusiness Farm ltd is honored to announce 16th National agriculture show to be held from 20th to 29th July 2023 at Mulindi / Gasabo Show Ground

The second day in 16^th AGRISHOW was the exhibition day. The day on which the different people with different ideas come to visit our stand for clarification. Some with questions others with inadequate understandings about pig farming. As we did yesterday, we are also going answer the questions that were asked by the visitors.

Let’s first show you the most frequent questions:

What are the criteria do you consider when selling the pigs?
Which breeds do you grow?

Let’s go for the answers now as we have now seen the most common questions:

On our mode of selling pigs, mainly we put more emphasis on it’s weight and currently the price for one kilogram is priced at 4000Rwf this is both considered on both pigs bought for growing and for slaughters. So, simply our price structure always depend on the weight of the bought pig and the price is independent of the reason for buying the pig.
Talking about the breeds that we grow:

I. LANDRACE.

The Landrace breed is important for the production of quality bacon pigs. It is smaller than the Large White, but has much larger hams. It has large floppy ears that fall over its eyes.

As well Landrace are known for their length of body, high percentage of carcass weight in the ham and loin, and ideal amount of finish. Landrace are prolific sows that farrow large pigs and which are exceptionally heavy milkers.

With high fertility rates the South African Landrace pig breed can produce these days easily up to 18 – 21 piglets born alive, per litter. The South African Landrace sows are renowned for their femininity, docility, milkability and mothering ability.

II. LARGE WHITE.

The Large White is a rugged and hardy breed that can withstand a wide range of climatic conditions. They are commonly used in crossbreeding or hybrid programs, with the most popular cross being Large White and Landrace. This cross is often used as the maternal line in commercial herds.

III. PIETRAIN.

Pietrain pigs can provide not only a manageable ownership proposition, but also an excellent source of top-quality pork. The Pietrain, at 83%, produces carcasses with the highest meat content of any pig.

Pietrain boars offer pig producers an excellent option for maximizing efficient lean meat production, particularly with commercial halothane-free lines available. In many markets there is a demand for lean pork, and, as such, the Pietrain is used as terminal sire in commercial breeding programs.

Litter size is generous, too, with up to 13 piglets being common from a healthy young sow. What’s more, the youngsters are robust little creatures and, once out, will grow and develop strongly and typically without drama.

IV. DUROC.

Duroc pork boasts superior marbling and increased intramuscular fat to lend itself to a naturally juicer more tender product. Serve incredible tasting pork at your dinner table! It’s versatility and superior flavor makes this pork breed an everyday household staple.

Duroc pigs are one of the better breeds for farming. Their temperament, large litter size, and rapid growth will always benefit farmers. As for meat quality, their abundance of well-marbled meat will always have a place at the market

The Duroc is a large-framed, late-maturing type, excellent for heavy-carcasses production. The forequarters, particularly the head and neck, are light and it has small lop ears. The skin is a solid reddish color, varying from gold to a deep, brick red. They have a medium length and slight dish of the face.

While most pigs have litters of about 5 to 10 piglets, Duroc sows can often produce large litters of 10 to 15 piglets.

V. CAMBOROUGH.

The Camborough is bred to maximize the pounds of weaned pigs per year with excellent feed efficiency. In addition, the Camborough can typically be bred three weeks earlier than sows with other genetics, resulting in a higher total number of piglets per sow per lifetime and lower production costs.

Camborough pigs are praised for their excellent meat quality that is to say; not too much fat, better resistance to parasites, higher growth rate, better mothering ability and high average litter size of 14 piglets.

21 Jul, 2023

Guy Amos0 commentsJuly 21, 2023Agriculture, Events, General News, Professional Training & Project Study

Day 1 in the 16th AGRISHOW 2023

Day 1 in 16^th Agrishow 2023

The vision Agribusiness Farm ltd is honored to announce 16th National agriculture show to be held from 20th to 29th july 2023 at Mulindi / Gasabo Show Ground

The first day in 16^th Agrishow was the launching day. The day on which the minister of Finance in Rwanda NDAGIJIMANA Uzziel together with another minister from Zimbabwe where they took a tour around different stands randomly.

On our stand we have received many people that have got a chance to ask their challenging questions that we are also glad to share with you and provide respective answers for each.

How is semen distribution over drones is efficient?
How is the distribution structure of the drone system?
How do you get connected with Zipline?
How can an unskilled farmer access the Artificial Insemination?

Let’s go for the answers now as we have now seen the most common questions:

The use of Drones in semen distribution is an efficient method not only that it is environmental friendly but it also saves time as drones are fast and able to cover the whole country in the sufficient number within a single trip. In VAF we have had an arrangement with the Zipline management and we have agreed to work together in semen distribution.

Actually, the distribution structure starts at the veterinary requesting the semen this is where s/he has to send a message to our headquarter member in charge NDAYAMBAJE Alexis (Tel 0788 898 621) or our veterinary in charge MANIRAGUHA Bosco (Tel 0787 899 643). The message must contain the following relevant information: Name of the farm owner, telephone number of the farmer, Address of the farm, Amount(dose), Address of the center at which the package containing the dose, name of the veterinary, telephone number of the veterinary. The message is the forwarded to the Zipline management. At this stage the order is then prepared and loaded into the drones and then its ready to be delivered to respective center as stated in the message. The veterinary is then sent a message to confirm the delivery of the order.
Our connection with Zipline over telephone line and via WhatsApp. We forward the messages from veterinaries from all around the country to the marketing manager of Zipline and the orders are then prepared for departure.
Not only the skilled farmers about Artificial Insemination can practice Artificial Insemination but also the unskilled farmers are also able to practice it according to our plan. We have also set some means to help them too. This is the method of using the veterinaries found in all sectors. We have arranged to use the veterinaries to create orders and to pick the delivered ones to the farms and are also in charge of performing the Artificial Insemination