BY MATHEWS NDANYI
Uasin Gishu Governor Dr 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.”
The mass vaccination initiative is taking place in more than 520
crushes throughout Uasin Gishu, making it accessible to as many farmers as
possible.
Sawe said the initiative has been well-received by famers, who
said it helps secure their livelihoods as livestock diseases threaten their
investment and resources.
Kesses subcounty veterinary officer Nixon Ngoya was also present during the exercise.
He urged farmers to keep an eye on vaccination schedules and to
reach out to the county for any further information or assistance regarding the
ongoing campaign.