The Kenya Veterinary Paraprofessional Association (KVPA) has expressed strong support for the nationwide livestock vaccination campaign scheduled to begin in January 2025. This initiative, which aims to curb major livestock diseases, has received assurances of vaccine safety and efficacy from local veterinary experts and relevant authorities.
Speaking on the campaign, John Ngigi, the national chairman of KVPA, emphasized the importance of vaccination in controlling diseases that affect both livestock and human health. “Vaccination remains one of the safest and most effective methods to prevent and control livestock diseases,” Ngigi affirmed.
Kenya has faced significant setbacks in its livestock trade due to outbreaks of diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR). These outbreaks have led to the loss of international markets and frequent quarantines, depriving livestock farmers of income and hindering economic progress in the sector. The upcoming vaccination campaign is expected to establish disease-free zones, enabling the resumption of local and international trade in livestock and related products.
Consultative Efforts and Vaccine Assurance
Ngigi disclosed that KVPA, a body representing 15,000 veterinary paraprofessionals, recently held a consultative meeting with the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS), chaired by Dr. Allan Azegele. The meeting provided insights into the government’s vaccination plans, including assurances that the vaccines will be free and produced locally by the Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute (KEVEVAPI).
“KEVEVAPI’s Managing Director, Alex Sabuni, has assured us of the Institute’s capacity to produce sufficient vaccines for both PPR and FMD during the vaccination period. There will be no importation of foreign vaccines, and the vaccines used will incorporate methane-reducing technology,” said Ngigi.
The targeted regions for the campaign include Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) for PPR and the Dairy Belt for FMD. This focused approach is intended to address the areas most impacted by these diseases.
Ngigi reassured farmers about the quality and safety of the vaccines, which have been used successfully for decades. He also addressed the financial burden that vaccination costs often place on farmers. A single vial of FMD vaccine, priced at Sh10,000–15,000, is prohibitive for many livestock keepers. The government-led initiative aims to eliminate this barrier, making vaccination accessible to all farmers.
Awareness and Stakeholder Collaboration
To ensure the success of the campaign, KVPA will launch a robust awareness and sensitization program in January 2025. This effort will target livestock farmers, community leaders, and government administrators, emphasizing the importance of vaccination and addressing any misconceptions.
The association is also collaborating with partners, including the DVS, Kenya Veterinary Board (KVB), Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), and KEVEVAPI, to guarantee a seamless vaccination rollout.
Ngigi urged livestock farmers to present their animals at designated vaccination sites, which will be announced by the DVS. He also called on political leaders to refrain from spreading misinformation about vaccine safety and instead consult technical experts for clarity on veterinary matters.
Safeguarding Livelihoods
Ngigi emphasized KVPA’s commitment to executing the campaign professionally, safeguarding the health of livestock and the livelihoods of farmers. “Veterinary paraprofessionals are ready to undertake this exercise in a professional manner. The Association is keen to ensure that the campaign is successful and beneficial to all farmers,” he stated.
He concluded by encouraging the public to disregard rumors casting doubt on the vaccine’s quality and to trust the assurances provided by veterinary authorities.
This nationwide vaccination campaign marks a significant step toward eradicating livestock diseases, enhancing Kenya’s trade opportunities, and securing the livelihoods of thousands of farmers across the country.
