Safeguarding Bhutan’s livelihoods: The fight against African Swine fever

First detected in Bhutan in May 2021, African swine fever outbreaks have affected pig farmers across multiple districts, especially in the south. With over 60 percent of Bhutan’s population relying on agriculture and pig farming on the rise, ASF poses a serious threat to food security and rural livelihoods. To tackle ASF, FAO Bhutan in collaboration with the Department of Livestock, worked on a preparedness and response project focusing on:

• Strengthening animal health services
• Enhancing ASF detection & response
• Improving biosecurity along the pig value chain
• Boosting risk communication & farmer training

Hear from farmers, veterinarians and experts who are on the frontlines of this fight. Their insights reveal how Bhutan is building resilience against ASF and protecting rural livelihoods. 

11/02/2025