In a decisive move to contain an outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), the Kakamega County government has announced the closure of the Lubao livestock market and imposed a ban on the transportation of livestock from Shinyalu and Malava sub-counties to other parts of the county. These measures come as the highly contagious disease threatens the livelihoods of livestock farmers in the region.
The county’s Department of Agriculture has launched a comprehensive vaccination drive targeting cattle, goats, sheep, and pigs. The initiative aims to curb the spread of FMD, a disease that can have devastating economic consequences for affected communities.
During the official launch of the vaccination campaign in Handidi, Lurambi constituency, Kakamega’s Acting County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Mophat Mandela, outlined the government’s strategy to tackle the outbreak. “The closure of the Lubao livestock market, which borders the two affected sub-counties, is just one of several measures we have put in place to contain this outbreak,” Mandela stated.
The vaccination drive will be conducted door-to-door, ensuring that livestock in even the most remote areas are protected. County officials have been instructed to prioritize cattle, goats, sheep, and pigs, which are most vulnerable to the disease. “We are committed to safeguarding the health of our livestock and the livelihoods of our farmers,” Mandela added.
To further mitigate the spread of FMD, the county government has implemented strict protocols, including the prohibition of slaughtering infected cattle and ensuring their meat does not reach the market. These measures aim to protect consumers and prevent the disease from spreading further.
Rukia Maloba, the county’s Veterinary Officer, urged farmers to collaborate with government officials during the vaccination drive. “We need full cooperation from the farming community to ensure that every susceptible animal is vaccinated,” Maloba emphasized. “This is the only way we can effectively control and eliminate the disease.”
The county government remains optimistic that these measures will not only contain the current outbreak but also prevent future occurrences. Livestock farming is a key economic activity in Kakamega, and ensuring the health of animals is critical to the region’s economy.
Controversy Over National Vaccine Rollout
The FMD outbreak in Kakamega coincides with a national initiative to launch animal vaccines against diseases, a program that has sparked controversy. Opposition leaders have criticized the government’s decision to have national mandatory vaccination program which they allege is pushing the western countries agenda, claiming they are designed to reduce methane emissions by curbing animal burping and farting.
Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has been vocal in his criticism, alleging that the vaccines are part of a foreign agenda targeting local livestock farming practices. “These vaccines are being introduced to prevent animals from producing methane through natural processes like burping and farting,” Musyoka claimed. “This has left farmers uncertain about the true intentions of the program.”
Despite the controversy, the Kakamega County government is urging farmers to focus on the immediate threat of FMD and support the vaccination drive. “Our priority is to protect our livestock from a disease that directly affects their health and productivity,” Mandela asserted.
As the region grapples with the outbreak, the success of these measures will depend on the collective efforts of the government, veterinary officials, and the farming community. The county’s response underscores the importance of proactive and coordinated action in addressing livestock health crises.
