The Success Rate of Frozen Jersey Embryos in Rwanda: A case Study of Songa RAB Cattle Farm in Huye District

Abstract

Milk and animal products are in high demand as the population grows and the economy prospers. Embryo technology is one of the technologies recommended for expanding access to improved dairy cattle. Challenges of the Rwanda dairy industry include low-producing cattle genetics, which results in the need to import live animals, semen, and embryos. This study investigated the embryo success rate at the Songa RAB farm between March and August 2024. Out of 62 potential recipients, 41 met experimental study parameters, including cycling, body condition score, body weight, reproductive history, and age. The cows and heifers that met selection criteria were treated with hormones to induce oestrus heat and only 17 animals had a suitable corpus luteum size to receive embryos. The pregnancy rate was determined at 90 days after implantation using ultrasonography. The collected data were analyzed via SPSS. 23. The study's findings revealed that only 29.4% of embryo transfers resulted in pregnancy. In the present study, size of the corpus luteum, recipient age, and frequency of observed heat signs were strongly correlated with a higher success rate. Despite its relevance in lowering the cost of importing live cows, minimizing animal disease transmission, and providing other economic benefits, ET technology is not commonly used, particularly in developing countries. Even though embryo technology has financial and technical barriers, it can still be recommended as an alternative method of integrating pure breeds into Rwanda's dairy development strategies.