Jonathan Mueke, Principal Secretary State Department for Livestock Development
The Government through the State Department of Livestock Development has launched the National Mass Livestock Vaccination Program, an initiative aimed at vaccinating cattle, goats, and sheep against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR). This ambitious program seeks to achieve 80 percent herd immunity across the country, marking a significant step towards eradicating these debilitating diseases and bolstering Kenya’s agricultural economy.
During a workshop held with County Directors of Veterinary Services from all 47 counties, Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach involving national and county governments, private veterinarians, farmers, and other stakeholders. “This initiative is designed to safeguard livestock health, unlock greater market opportunities for Kenyan meat and milk products, and ultimately contribute to the resilience of our agricultural sector,” Mueke stated.
The first phase of the campaign has already yielded impressive results, with 1.3 million livestock vaccinated against FMD. The vaccines, locally manufactured by the Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute (KEVEVAPI), are being provided free of charge to farmers through local veterinary officers and designated vaccination centers.
Four counties have benefited from this initial rollout, setting the stage for the campaign’s expansion to all 47 counties. This first step reflects a robust start to the three-year initiative, which aims to vaccinate 22 million livestock by its conclusion.
Foot and Mouth Disease has long plagued Kenyan farmers, causing significant economic losses due to reduced productivity, restricted trade, and higher mortality rates among livestock. PPR, another transboundary disease, poses similar challenges to the health and productivity of sheep and goats.
By targeting these diseases, the vaccination program aims to mitigate their impact, improve livestock productivity, and enhance Kenya’s ability to compete in both regional and international markets.
Mueke called on farmers across the country to take advantage of the free vaccination services. “These vaccines are available at no cost. We urge farmers to engage with their local veterinary officers and visit designated vaccination centers to ensure their livestock are protected,” he said.
The campaign aligns with Kenya’s broader goals of improving food security, increasing incomes for farmers, and enhancing the resilience of the agricultural sector in the face of climate change and other challenges. By eradicating FMD and PPR, the program also aims to open new opportunities for Kenya to export livestock products to high-value markets, boosting the national economy.
With continued support from all stakeholders, the National Livestock Vaccination Program promises to be a transformative initiative for the livestock sector. As the campaign progresses, it will not only safeguard the health of millions of animals but also empower farmers and communities across Kenya.