The outbreak of African swine fever in Kwawu West has had a devastating impact, resulting in the deaths of nearly 1,000 pigs in the municipality.

In light of this situation, various agencies, including the veterinary service, environmental service, and the Municipal Assembly, have come together to implement necessary measures to control the spread of the disease.

Dr. Mark Owusu, the veterinary officer for the Municipality, explained that one of the key step taken is the ban on the movement of pigs from one location to another and the sale of pork.

Additionally, a comprehensive disinfection exercise has been initiated to address the issue. This disinfection process is expected to continue for approximately three months before the resumption of normal activities in the pig farming sector.

Diamond Kwame, the Environmental Health officer leading the disinfection exercise, emphasized the importance of pig farmers promptly reporting any symptoms or issues in their farms to the veterinary office for assistance and monitoring.

One affected farmer, Dr. Kwasi Owusu of Okodie Farms in Kwawu Akwaboah, expressed his readiness to comply with the instructions provided by veterinary officers.

He also highlighted his desire for government support in the form of startup capital amounting to GHC300,000 to help him restart his pig farming business.

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Dr. Kwasi Owusu, a dedicated pig farmer from Kwahu Akwaboah, shared the dire impact of this outbreak.

Over the past three weeks, he revealed that, more than 560 pigs on his farm succumbed to the disease, resulting in a staggering loss.

Despite this setback, Dr. Owusu his determined to continue pig farming with the hope to receive support.

Veterinary officer for Kwahu West, Dr. Mark Owusu confirmed the outbreak to Adom News.

He reassured the affected farmers that efforts were underway to contain the spread of the disease.

Importantly, Dr. Owusu clarified that, Africa’s swine fever does not pose any threat to human health but has a high potential to spreed among pigs.

Additionally, he highlighted that, the meat of infected pigs can be safely consumed after thorough boiling, exceeding a temperature of 60 degrees celsius.

The Municipal Agriculture Director, Francis Dogbatse expressed deep concern about the impact the outbreak will have on the agricultural sector.

He urged all pig farmers to promptly report any symptoms of the disease to veterinary officers for swift action to prevent further losses.