Spare Us Your Ignorance – Ruto Vows Livestock Vaccination Will Go On.

President William Ruto has affirmed that the national livestock vaccination campaign will proceed as planned, dismissing opposition from some leaders. Speaking during the annual Kimalel goat auction in Baringo County on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, Ruto emphasized that the initiative aims to meet international disease control standards and boost market access for animal products.

“I want to ask leaders who have no knowledge and understanding to spare us their ignorance because they can’t continue to mislead the country,” said Ruto. “To access better markets and fetch higher prices for our farmers, it’s essential to adhere to international standards of disease control. That’s why we’re conducting this campaign to reduce disease prevalence.”

The vaccination campaign targets livestock across the country to combat diseases like foot and mouth in cattle and Blue Ear (BER) in goats and sheep. Despite misinformation suggesting otherwise, the government clarified that the program is locally driven.

Principal Secretary for Livestock Development, Jonathan Mueke, debunked claims that the exercise is linked to American billionaire Bill Gates. “That the exercise is from Bill Gates and is to vaccinate bovine animals against flatulence is pure propaganda,” said Mueke. “All the vaccines are locally manufactured by Kenyan scientists.”

Mueke noted that the campaign had already reached 10% of the country’s livestock population, although 86% coverage is required to achieve herd immunity.

Leaders like Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki also urged citizens to support the initiative. “Take your cattle for vaccination; do not listen to detractors,” said Ichung’wah. “The real challenge in this country is not the negativity you hear but leaders who are clueless and politicize every government program.”

Kindiki echoed the sentiment, highlighting the economic and health benefits for livestock keepers. “This vaccination program ensures the health of your animals and guarantees better prices for you in the market,” he said.

As the campaign gains momentum, Ruto and his government remain steadfast in their resolve to improve the livestock sector while addressing misinformation head-on.

Article By Suzy Nyongesa.