Biosecurity Measures to Prevent African Swine Fever (ASF) in Smallholder Pig Farms

African Swine Fever is a highly contagious viral disease that causes severe losses in domestic pigs and wild boars, with mortality rates approaching one hundred percent in acute outbreaks. The virus survives for long periods in the environment and spreads easily through contaminated pork products, vehicles, equipment, clothing and wildlife, making control especially challenging for smallholder farmers. This article highlights the key factors that increase the vulnerability of smallholder pig farms, including open housing systems, limited biosecurity resources, shared tools, risky feeding practices and frequent animal movement. It explains how practical and affordable measures based on three core principles of segregation, cleaning and disinfection can significantly reduce transmission risks. Strategies such as restricting access to pig areas, boiling swill, quarantining new pigs, improving hygiene and preventing contact with wild boars are presented as essential and achievable steps for small farms. The article also emphasises the importance of community cooperation, because coordinated action across neighbouring farms strengthens overall protection. By adopting simple and consistent biosecurity practices that suit local needs, smallholder farmers can protect their pigs, safeguard their livelihoods and reduce the long-term impact of African Swine Fever in rural communities.