The Ministry of Livestock Development, led by Principal Secretary Hon. Jonathan Mueke, held a high-level meeting with County Directors of Veterinary Services from all 47 counties to strategize the rollout of the National Mass Livestock Vaccination Program.
The initiative, which aims to vaccinate cattle, goats, and sheep against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), represents a significant step toward boosting livestock health and unlocking the economic potential of Kenya’s livestock sector.
The vaccination program’s overarching goal is to achieve 80% herd immunity, a critical threshold to curb the spread of these debilitating livestock diseases. FMD and PPR have long posed a threat to livestock productivity, resulting in economic losses for farmers and limiting the competitiveness of Kenyan livestock products in local and international markets.
Speaking during the meeting, Hon. Mueke emphasized the program’s transformative potential.
“This vaccination campaign is more than just a health intervention; it is an investment in the future of our livestock industry. By eradicating these diseases, we are not only improving the well-being of our livestock but also creating greater market opportunities for our meat and milk products,” he stated.
The program’s success hinges on a collaborative effort between various stakeholders, including the national and county governments, private veterinarians, farmers, and development partners. County Directors of Veterinary Services have been tasked with spearheading the program at the grassroots level, ensuring that livestock in even the most remote regions are reached.
Private veterinary practitioners will complement the effort by providing technical expertise and increasing the program’s capacity, while farmers are expected to actively participate by availing their livestock for vaccination. Development partners have also pledged support in terms of funding, logistics, and disease surveillance.
Hon. Mueke lauded the unity displayed by all stakeholders, noting that the cooperation between national and county governments is a testament to the leadership’s commitment to solving pressing issues in the livestock sector.
Livestock vaccination is crucial to safeguarding the livelihoods of millions of Kenyans who rely on pastoralism and livestock farming. FMD and PPR outbreaks have historically led to reduced milk and meat production, higher mortality rates, and restricted trade opportunities due to quarantine measures.
By addressing these challenges, the vaccination program is expected to enhance food security, increase household incomes, and position Kenya as a leading exporter of livestock products in the region and beyond. Furthermore, healthy livestock contribute to environmental sustainability by enabling more efficient land use.
