BY MATHEWS NDANYI
Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii wants livestock movements restricted to rein in an outbreak of foot and mouth disease.
He ordered the suspension of roadside grazing and transportation of livestock as the Livestock department carries out a vaccination campaign targeting more than 800,000 herds of cattle.
“This vaccination is part of our broader strategy to control and prevent the spread of these infectious diseases,” Bii said.
They pose significant threats to livestock health and the local agricultural economy, he said, hence his administration’s investments in medicine and staff. He urged farmers to report all cases of sick animals and directed Livestock officers to vaccinate all animals in the subcounties.
Agriculture executive Edward Sawe spearheaded the vaccination drive at the Mugundoi and Nairiri cattle dips in Cheptiret/Kipchamo ward, Kesses subcounty.
During the event, Sawe reassured farmers that the county has sufficient vaccines to meet the demands of the ongoing campaign.
“We are committed to safeguarding the health of our livestock and ensuring that our farmers can continue their livelihoods without fear of disease outbreaks,” Sawe said.
He urged all farmers to ensure that their animals are covered under the programme so that the disease does not recur in the region.
Sawe was accompanied by Livestock chief officer Nixon Cheplong and Veterinary Services director Dr Philip Biama.
The trio engaged with local farmers, demonstrating the vaccination process and addressing concerns regarding the vaccine’s efficacy and the safety of their livestock.
Foot and mouth disease is highly contagious and affects cattle, sheep and goats, leading to severe economic losses due to decreased productivity and trade restrictions.
All dogs in the region will also be vaccinated against rabies. Rabies remains a public health concern, and vaccinating dogs and cats is crucial in preventing its spread, particularly in rural communities where close interactions occur between humans and animals.
“The safety and health of our livestock is paramount to our agricultural productivity and food security,”
Cheplong said.
“Therefore, it is essential that we
act swiftly to ensure that all cattle in
Uasin Gishu county are vaccinated
against these diseases.”
