This archive report was first published on 27 August 2019.
On Sunday, a tragic incident occurred in Bomet County, Kenya, where seven cows died after feeding on green maize stalks suspected to contain nitrate.
According to Dr. Wilson Serem, the County Director of Veterinary Services, the animals might have died of nitrate poisoning.
"The animals are said to have fed on green maize stalks in a farm within the homestead and died a few hours later. Preliminary investigations show it could be a case of nitrate poisoning, but samples have been sent to government chemists for analysis," Dr. Serem explained.
Dr. Serem warned that animals should not feed on green maize stalks as they have high concentrations of nitrate. He advised that the stalks should be cut and dried first before being given to livestock.
A similar incident occurred in the neighbouring Chepalungu constituency two years ago. However, a sensitisation exercise carried out by the livestock and veterinary departments has helped curb the recurrence of such incidents.
Mr. Kipsoi Chemuren incurred an estimated loss of Sh210,000 in the incident that occurred at Lelechwet village in Kapkimolwo location of Bomet East constituency.
Mr. Stanley Towett, the Kapkimolwo locational chief, and veterinary officers supervised the burial of the carcasses.
"We made sure the residents did not slaughter and eat meat from the animals. Veterinary officers having been called to investigate the cause of the animals' death," Mr. Towett said.
