FAO has finished delivering a series of trainings at various locations in Kosovo1 on detecting and preventing African swine fever (ASF) in pig farms. 

The disease was first detected in 2019 in Serbia, with its first incursion into the Western Balkans. As the disease is still present in the country, the risk of it entering into neighboring countries and areas, including Kosovo, remains an on-going threat.

In total, four trainings at different locations were held reaching 47 pig keepers and 12 private veterinarians. The training materials were developed by FAO experts and was adapted to local circumstances and delivered by Jeton Muhaxhiri, FAO field activity expert.

The one-day training consisted of two parts. In the morning, presentations were given on the impact of African swine fever, how the disease spreads and ways of detecting it. The afternoon was dedicated to biosecurity on pig farms and discussing specific approaches of preventing an ASF introduction.