More than 1,200 livestock from six villages in North Kodondo location in Kwabwai ward, Ndhiwa constituency have been dewormed and disinfected against ticks.
Ndhiwa sub-county Veterinary Officer Kennedy Oranga said assessment was done after they received reports on the death and sickness of animals in the area.
At least 80 cattle have died due to diseases associated with worms and ticks infestation. Animals died from the blackwater fever disease, the assessment revealed.
“More than 850 cattle have been taken through treatment today against worms and tick borne diseases. Let residents remain vigilant and report cases of animal illnesses for faster response,” Oranga said.
Some of the affected villages included Nyoniang', Ong'ere, Kanyotieno, Nyaguok Oromo Ng'or, Dunga and Nyamware.
Cattle, sheep, goats and donkeys were treated during the exercise. Speaking during the exercise at Nyoniang grounds on Saturday, the officer said they are planning to vaccinate livestock against black water fever.
He urged residents to consult with vet officers and report cases of animal sickness and also called for regular disinfection of livestock to keep diseases at bay.
“Let residents also report cases of livestock infection for early treatment. My office is ready to support farmers in Ndhiwa for the good health of their animals,” he added.
Jane Olango, Erick Awuor and Moses Odondo, who took their animals for the exercise, said they raised the alarm after realising they were losing livestock.
Olango said they depend on the animals for their livelihoods.
“Livestock is a source of livelihoods to many people in this area. Losing them will see us not ploughing our farms and educating children,” she said.
Olango urged those who were left behind to show up next time.
Awuor and Odondo asked the Homa Bay department of livestock to respond faster when called upon.
“Some farmers have counted losses because of the infestation. Let the relevant department respond swiftly to avoid loss whenever they are called upon,” Awuor said.
Odondo reiterated, saying the animals were their source of livelihood.
“We keep livestock for our economic benefits,” he said.
