This archive report was first published on 5 July 2020.
On July 5, 2020, the national government initiated a comprehensive livestock vaccination campaign in regions prone to animal diseases.
The exercise, which covers 14 counties, aims to enhance livestock market and farmers' earnings by preventing the spread of diseases.
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya launched the vaccination programme on cattle, goats, sheep, camels, donkeys, and dogs at Kisargei village in Segera ward, Laikipia North Constituency.
CS Munya emphasized that the government does not want to hear livestock keepers complain about diseases affecting their animals after the exercise.
He noted that the well-coordinated vaccination exercise would help stop the spread of diseases that occur when farmers move their animals from one market to another and while searching for pasture.
The CS highlighted the importance of vaccinating animals in surrounding counties where inter-county livestock movement occurs, citing Baringo, Samburu, and Isiolo as some of the counties where vaccination is ongoing.
CS Munya also announced plans to launch countrywide training to educate slaughter men on how to handle livestock without damaging their skins, which would add value to the skins and enable them to sell at good prices.
He further disclosed that the livestock digital tagging pilot project was complete and would be rolled out nationwide in the following year.
CS Munya emphasized the significance of digital tagging, stating that it provides an opportunity to better manage animal performance.
The CS was accompanied by his Ministry's Chief Administrative Secretary Linah Kilimo, Laikipia Governor Ndiritu Muriithi, Laikipia County Commissioner Daniel Nyameti, and Director of Livestock Julius Kiptarus.
By Margaret Kirera
