Nairobi: The Turkana County Government, in collaboration with Welthungerhilfe Kenya (WHH), has conducted a livestock vaccination campaign in Nachuro and Nasinyono, located in Lokichoggio and Turkana West sub-counties, respectively, in a bid to safeguard the health and livelihoods of pastoralist communities.
According to Kenya News Agency, the nine-day initiative, funded by the German Federal Foreign Office (AA/GFFO), aims to mitigate the adverse effects of water scarcity and hunger through WASH interventions and emergency assistance to vulnerable communities. The exercise benefitted 567 households and covered over 70,000 livestock.
During the campaign, livestock were vaccinated against key diseases, including Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) and Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD). Animals showing signs of mange received specialised treatment, while all livestock underwent deworming to reduce the burden of internal parasites. Chief Officer for Livestock Development, Dr. Gilchrist Lokoel, reported that 38,036 goats and 29,361 sheep were vaccinated against PPR and dewormed. Additionally, 3,228 cattle received vaccinations against LSD, a disease that has significantly impacted livestock in the region.
"This campaign, in partnership with WHH, plays a crucial role in reducing disease outbreaks, decreasing livestock mortality rates, and improving overall animal health," said Dr. Lokoel. "It also helps combat worm infestations and flea-related diseases, which severely affect productivity."
Beyond vaccinations, the programme emphasized veterinary extension services, educating pastoralists on the importance of vaccination, deworming, and supportive treatment. Dr. Lokoel further announced that these areas will remain a priority in the coming months, with routine disease surveillance and assessments planned as needed. To enhance disease monitoring, the county is strengthening the training of Community Disease Reporters (CDRs) in border areas. By improving real-time reporting, the government aims to curb cross-border disease outbreaks, ultimately protecting livestock health and boosting productivity.
Additionally, the county will distribute range cubes as supplementary feed to help sustain livestock during the ongoing drought. WHH provided crucial logistical support and personnel, while the county government ensured the availability of essential veterinary supplies. As part of a broader disease control strategy, blood samples from sick animals were collected for laboratory analysis to investigate suspected cases of brucellosis and other infectious diseases.
Dr. Lokoel was accompanied by Director of Veterinary Services Dr. Benson Longor, Deputy Director Dr. Erenius Nakadio, and the WHH supervision team.