Narok: Livestock farmers in Narok County are set to benefit from a government-subsidised Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccination programme, aimed at protecting animals from the disease while boosting productivity.
According to Kenya News Agency, the exercise was announced by Narok County Deputy Governor, Tamalinye Koech, who said the programme will also open up opportunities for farmers to access international markets by ensuring their livestock meet global health standards. "This is more than just a vaccination campaign. It is an investment in our people, our economy, and our future. Let us ensure no farmer is left behind," said Koech.
The Deputy Governor added that the County is keen on replicating the success seen in crop farming through similar initiatives in the livestock sector. He revealed that during the long rainy season, over 350,000 bags of subsidised fertiliser were distributed to farmers in Narok, while an additional 100,000 bags will be distributed during the short rains.
"We must extend this kind of support to livestock farmers, because animal rearing is the backbone of many households in Narok. Strengthening this sector means strengthening our people's livelihoods," he emphasized. The County Administration says the vaccination drive will cover all major livestock-keeping areas, with the aim of reducing losses from disease outbreaks and improving household incomes.