This archive report was first published on 21 August 2019.
On August 21, 2019, Kenya and Uganda embarked on a historic joint mass vaccination of livestock against deadly diseases that have been ravaging the region. The initiative, which aims to create a disease-free zone, has so far vaccinated 300,000 animals along the border of the two countries.
The exercise, which started last week in Kacheliba Pokot North Sub County, targets animals in areas such as Natekol, Abong'oi, Asiokanion, Karita, Lokales, Ng'rina, Kiriki, and Chepkusinya. The vaccination drive is a follow-up to a similar exercise conducted last year.
West Pokot Governor Prof. John Lonyangapuo led the Kenyan delegation in Uganda, vaccinating animals in various areas along the border. Governor Lonyangapuo emphasized the importance of creating a disease-free zone to improve the immunity of livestock and boost productivity.
Mark Lomunokol, the Member of Parliament for Kacheliba, hailed the initiative, saying it promotes peace and security in the region. He also expressed hope that the process will enable Kenya, particularly West Pokot, to export meat in the near future.
The MP urged the government to support livestock farmers, saying it will help pastoralist communities in the country.
