Farmers are calling on the government to take action over the outbreak of foot and mouth disease

Months after the government announced a widespread outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease across the country, farmers are expressing their frustration and calling for immediate solutions. The plea was made during World Veterinary Day rallies in Rakai District, as well as Kyotera and Sembabule Districts, where farmers expressed their concerns about the ongoing challenges they face.

Farmers are adamant about the need for real interventions, citing problems with ineffective remedies and a lack of access to essential vaccines to combat foot-and-mouth disease and other animal health problems.

Earlier this year, the government imposed a significant quarantine following the outbreak of the disease, which had serious consequences for farmers who were unable to sell their produce. While the government promised to provide vaccines and real medicine, farmers are now pushing authorities to keep those promises as they continue to struggle with sick animals.

Daniel Kasibule, chairman of the Uganda Veterinary Association, stressed the need for adequate vaccine supplies, stating: “If we have more than 16 million cattle, we should have at least 10 million doses. We appeal to the government to meet the scientific requirement.”

Dr. Majorine Nabbadda, vice president of the association, noted that Rakai had reported no new infections but urged farmers to remain vigilant against possible outbreaks.

Meanwhile, Dr Ben Sssenkeera, a senior veterinary official at the Ministry of Agriculture, urged farmers to focus on preventive measures pending government intervention.

As dairy farmers await the arrival of vaccines for their significant animal population, uncertainty looms over the timeline for the availability of essential medicines and vaccines, leaving farmers in a precarious situation with continued financial losses.