Abstract

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is one of the most economically important swine pathogens globally, however, its occurrence, epidemiology, strain diversity, and control status in Africa remain poorly defined. This narrative review summarizes the current evidence for the occurrence of PRRSV in Africa, highlights major surveillance and research gaps, and proposes priorities to strengthen detection and control in African pig production systems. Available published data indicate that PRRSV evidence is concentrated in a small number of countries: South Africa has reported outbreaks linked to both PRRSV-2 in 2004 and PRRSV-1 in 2007, Uganda has documented serological exposure and molecular detection of both PRRSV species, with PRRSV-1 dominating in slaughter pigs, Namibia has confirmed PRRSV-1 circulation in rural backyard farms, while Nigeria and Kenya have reported serological evidence of exposure. Smallholder-dominated production, low biosecurity uptake, and frequent animal movement through informal trade networks are recurring features that could facilitate the introduction and spread of the virus. However, in Africa, major geographic blind spots, limited diagnostic capacity, sparse genomic data, and the lack of economic burden estimates hinder risk assessment and policy prioritization. Expanding geographically representative surveillance, strengthening laboratory capacity, scaling sequencing and bioinformatics capacity, and integrating economic impact studies are essential steps to inform vaccine suitability, guide targeted interventions, and support sustainable growth of the African pig sector.

Key words: Africa; Pig; Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus; PRRS; PRRSV.