Kenya’s livestock sector is set for a significant boost as preparations for a nationwide vaccination campaign against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) enter the final stages. Officials from the national and county governments convened in Nairobi to finalize plans for the initiative, which aims to secure the health and sustainability of the country’s livestock industry.
Principal Secretary for Livestock Development Jonathan Mueke announced that the government is targeting an 80% herd immunity rate through this ambitious campaign. The vaccination drive will cover 22 million cattle and 50 million sheep and goats, a move he says will enhance productivity, improve food security, and strengthen Kenya’s competitiveness in global markets.
“With the collaboration of national and county governments, private vets, farmers, and other stakeholders, we are going to eliminate these diseases,” Mueke stated, emphasizing the transformative potential of the campaign.
The government has allocated 1.3 million doses of locally manufactured vaccines for the campaign. These vaccines are produced by the Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute (KEVEVAPI), a state corporation under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, which oversees vaccine production, marketing, and distribution.
This nationwide effort follows successful pilot projects conducted in Kitui, Tharaka Nithi, Embu, and Wajir counties over the past six months. Insights from these pilots have informed the strategies for the broader rollout, ensuring its effectiveness and efficiency.
President William Ruto, who will officially launch the exercise later this month, has assured farmers that the vaccination will be provided at no cost. “A successful campaign will improve livestock health and boost market opportunities for Kenyan livestock products,” the President stated in a previous address.
The campaign’s success is expected to open new local and international markets for Kenyan livestock products. By eliminating major livestock diseases, the government aims to enhance the sector’s productivity and contribute to national food security.
The collaboration among national and county governments, private sector stakeholders, and farmers is pivotal to achieving the program’s objectives. Mueke has called for active participation from all stakeholders to ensure the health and sustainability of Kenya’s livestock sector.
With the program set to commence this month, Kenya’s livestock farmers can anticipate a healthier, more productive future for their animals, which will in turn bolster economic growth and improve livelihoods across the nation.
