Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Andrew Karanja has addressed concerns raised by farmers regarding the safety of livestock vaccines, assuring them that the vaccines are thoroughly tested and safe for use. His statement comes ahead of the nationwide livestock vaccination campaign scheduled for January, aimed at protecting animals from diseases that have long been a challenge to the livestock sector.
During a recent visit to the Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute (Kevevapi), Karanja emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and the growth of the livestock sector. The initiative, which seeks to enhance animal health, comes at a crucial time as the livestock industry faces numerous challenges, including the spread of trade-sensitive diseases like foot and mouth disease, which have hindered access to both local and international markets.
“The Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute has ensured the availability of a sufficient supply of high-quality vaccines for the initiative,” Karanja stated. This assurance comes as part of the government’s broader effort to mitigate the economic losses caused by animal diseases, which have plagued the industry and contributed to poverty, particularly in pastoral areas.
Kevevapi, which was established on March 5, 1990, plays a central role in the country’s animal health strategy. The institute is equipped with the expertise and facilities to produce 15 different livestock vaccines. Currently, it manufactures 13 vaccines, including those for diseases such as Peste des Petits Ruminants, Rift Valley Fever, Newcastle disease, and Lumpy Skin disease. These vaccines are vital in the fight against diseases that have a significant economic impact on the livestock industry.
Karanja highlighted the importance of maintaining high standards for livestock products to support sector growth. “The government recognizes animal diseases as a major constraint to the growth of the livestock sector. Continuous vaccination against identified diseases of economic importance is essential to minimizing the losses incurred during outbreaks,” he said.
The government’s efforts are supported by Kevevapi’s ability to produce a reliable supply of pure, safe, potent, and effective vaccines. The institute operates two vaccine production laboratories: one in the Industrial Area for foot and mouth disease vaccines and another in Kabete, which produces 11 other vaccines for various diseases affecting livestock.
In addition to serving local demand, Kevevapi’s vaccines are increasingly being exported to regional and international markets. Countries such as Uganda, Mali, Senegal, Somaliland, the UAE, Sudan, and South Sudan are among the growing list of international customers for Kevevapi’s products. This expansion is a testament to the institute’s high manufacturing standards and the effectiveness of the vaccines produced.
“The success of animal health programs depends on the reliable supply of vaccines that are rigorously tested both locally and externally,” Karanja assured. He further emphasized that over the years, the government has supported Kevevapi in expanding its vaccine manufacturing capabilities. With the capacity to produce up to 75 million doses annually, the institute plays a crucial role in safeguarding animal health both within Kenya and across Africa.
Karanja’s visit to Kevevapi underscores the government’s ongoing support for the livestock sector, particularly in the face of the challenges posed by animal diseases. By ensuring a steady supply of vaccines, the government aims to boost livestock productivity, reduce economic losses, and improve the livelihoods of farmers. With the upcoming nationwide vaccination campaign, farmers can rest assured that the vaccines being administered to their livestock are both safe and effective.
As Kenya’s livestock industry continues to face challenges from diseases, the commitment shown by Kevevapi and the government provides a hopeful outlook for the future, with enhanced animal health and greater market access both locally and internationally.
