African Swine Fever affects 72 pig farmers in Dominican provinces

Santo Domingo.- The General Directorate of Livestock (Digega) reported that since the beginning of the year, outbreaks of African Swine Fever (ASF) have impacted around 72 backyard pig farmers across the provinces of Dajabón, La Vega, Duarte, and Espaillat. Interventions have been carried out in several affected communities, including Guanábano (La Vega), Guanuma (Monte Plata), and El Pino (Dajabón).

Digega’s general manager, Abel Madera, noted that while current outbreaks are less severe than those in 2021, the last 20 days have marked a peak in reported cases. Despite this, the situation remains under control. Authorities also revealed that testing rates remain below 1% of the pig population.

To support affected farmers, the government is preparing a Compensation Plan—soon to be announced by President Luis Abinader—that will include financial aid and alternative agricultural options to secure livelihoods. Meanwhile, Minister of Agriculture Limber Cruz emphasized that certain provinces remain more vulnerable to ASF due to their proximity to the Haitian border. In response, surveillance has been increased within a 20-kilometer range to help contain the spread.