Agricultural stakeholders in Kenya are calling for more transparency regarding the nationwide livestock vaccination program set to begin in January. The stakeholders, in a letter addressed to the Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute (KEVEVAPI), have requested detailed information on the vaccines that will be used during the vaccination campaign, which aims to vaccinate millions of cattle, goats, and sheep across the country.
The stakeholders are seeking clarification on several aspects of the program, including the type of vaccines to be administered, their components, and the number of doses required for the livestock. Specifically, they have asked KEVEVAPI to specify whether the vaccines are viral, killed, modified live vaccines (MLV), or mucosal vaccines. This information is crucial to ensure the safety and efficacy of the vaccines, as well as to address any concerns from farmers and livestock keepers.
Additionally, the stakeholders have requested KEVEVAPI to disclose any partnerships with organizations such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. They are also keen to know the cost per dose of the vaccines, as this will have a direct impact on the affordability and accessibility of the program for small-scale farmers.
The vaccination campaign, which was announced by President William Ruto in November, is set to target 22 million cattle and 50 million goats and sheep. The initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to improve livestock health, increase productivity, and secure international market access for Kenyan livestock products. The campaign is seen as a significant step towards controlling livestock diseases, which have been a major challenge for the agricultural sector in Kenya.
However, the initiative has not been without its critics. Some agricultural institutions, including the Kenya Veterinary Association (KVA), have raised concerns about the readiness of the program. The KVA recently called for a postponement of the vaccination campaign to allow for more public sensitization. There are fears that misinformation and resistance from livestock keepers could undermine the success of the program if it is rolled out without adequate awareness and engagement.
The KVA’s concerns are centered on the need for proper education and communication with farmers about the benefits and safety of the vaccines. Many livestock keepers are skeptical about the new initiative, and there are fears that they may resist the vaccination program if they do not fully understand its purpose or the potential benefits.
In response to these concerns, President Ruto has defended the vaccination campaign, emphasizing its transformative potential for the livestock sector. He assured the public that the vaccines are safe and that the government is committed to ensuring the program’s success. According to the president, the vaccination campaign will help control diseases, improve livestock health, and increase productivity, which will ultimately benefit farmers and the economy.
The government’s commitment to improving the livestock sector is evident in its efforts to secure international market access for Kenyan livestock products. The vaccination program is seen as a key step towards meeting international standards for animal health and ensuring that Kenyan livestock products can compete in global markets.
As the vaccination campaign draws closer, it remains to be seen whether the concerns raised by agricultural stakeholders will be addressed adequately. The success of the program will depend on the government’s ability to engage with farmers, provide clear information about the vaccines, and ensure that the campaign is implemented effectively across the country. With the right approach, the vaccination program has the potential to significantly improve the health and productivity of Kenya’s livestock sector.
