By Vicent Emong
Kumi District has received 111,500 doses of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccines as the Government of Uganda rolls out a nationwide compulsory livestock vaccination campaign aimed at protecting farmers’ livelihoods and strengthening the agricultural economy.
The consignment, delivered through the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, marks a significant step in the fight against one of the most contagious livestock diseases affecting cattle, goats, sheep, and pigs.
District Production Officer Rajab Ogogol confirmed the development, noting that the delivery also included a refrigerated container to ensure proper storage and safe handling of the vaccines.
❝ “I would like to sincerely thank the Government of Uganda for the vital support we received. This included 111,500 doses of vaccine, as well as a refrigerated container to ensure proper storage and handling.” ❞
— Rajab Ogogol
He explained that the vaccination exercise will be conducted under a cost-recovery arrangement to ensure sustainability, with farmers contributing UGX 8,000 per cow or pig and UGX 4,000 per goat or sheep.
According to Ogogol, the program has been made mandatory, with strict enforcement measures to ensure compliance across the district.
❝ “Vaccination certificates will be issued, and animals that are not vaccinated will not be allowed to access markets or slaughter facilities.” ❞
— Rajab Ogogol
He emphasized that unvaccinated animals pose a serious risk not only to individual farmers but also to the wider livestock sector and the national economy.
The initiative is expected to significantly reduce the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease, which has previously disrupted livestock trade and caused substantial financial losses to farmers in affected regions.
Beyond disease control, district authorities say the program is designed to unlock new economic opportunities by improving the quality and marketability of livestock.
❝ “This program is not just about disease control—it is about unlocking opportunities. Healthy and certified livestock can access better markets both locally and internationally.” ❞
— Rajab Ogogol
Ogogol further called upon political leaders, veterinary teams, and extension workers to intensify community mobilization and ensure farmers fully participate in the exercise.
He stressed that collective effort will be essential in achieving the goal of eliminating FMD and building a more resilient and profitable livestock sector.
❝ “By working together, we can eliminate Foot and Mouth Disease and strengthen our livestock industry for the benefit of all farmers.” ❞
— Rajab Ogogol
The rollout of the vaccination campaign is expected to boost confidence among livestock farmers in Kumi and beyond, while safeguarding food security and supporting Uganda’s broader agricultural development agenda.
