Taita taveta: Taita Taveta County Governor Andrew Mwadime has initiated a countywide livestock vaccination exercise aimed at transforming the region into a disease-free zone and enhancing market access for livestock products. The initiative is part of the National E-Voucher Vaccination programme targeting cattle, sheep, and goats in the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, Governor Mwadime emphasized the importance of the vaccination exercise during its launch in Manoa, Mwatate Sub-County. He described it as a pivotal step towards building a resilient and profitable livestock sector. The initiative, implemented in partnership with the National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP), focuses on combating diseases that significantly affect the livelihoods of livestock farmers.
The campaign will see cattle vaccinated against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), while sheep and goats will be protected against Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR). Governor Mwadime highlighted the potential of Taita Taveta as a niche market for livestock exports, particularly beef and beef products, despite the challenges posed by disease outbreaks, including a recent Lumpy Skin Disease epidemic.
The county has registered over 53,000 farmers engaged in both crop and livestock farming, with livestock numbers recorded at 39,740 cattle, 87,248 goats, and 12,488 sheep. The vaccination campaign will target these populations, with an E-voucher system in place to subsidize costs for farmers. Cattle vaccinations will cost farmers Sh50 per head, while goat and sheep vaccinations will cost Sh3 per head, with the government covering the remaining costs.
Governor Mwadime stressed the importance of transparency, efficiency, and accountability, noting that the E-voucher system will link farmers to certified veterinarians and cooperatives. The programme is supported by various farmers' cooperatives and private veterinary practitioners.
Stephen Mkala, chair of the Agriculture, Livestock and Blue Economy committee in the County Assembly, expressed support for the vaccination initiative, acknowledging its role in assisting farmers who previously faced high vaccination costs. County Executive Committee Member Dawson Katuu revealed that the project aims to reach over 50,000 farmers and more than 80,000 livestock.
Local MCA Mabishi Joseph and Dr. Jeremiah Ngugi, Director General of the Livestock Health Department, also endorsed the programme. They emphasized its timing with the onset of rains and its role in securing market access by ensuring livestock health standards. Dr. Ngugi also noted the employment opportunities the programme could create for trained youths in animal health.