The Kenya Veterinary Association (KVA) has called for the postponement of the planned nationwide livestock vaccination, citing several concerns.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, December 17, KVA explained that the delay would allow sufficient time for public sensitization about the exercise and address existing concerns among Kenyans.
The association highlighted credibility issues, arguing that the vaccination campaign has been shrouded in secrecy, lacks adequate public awareness and fails to involve key stakeholders effectively.
"The government should pause the current exercise to allow time for adequate public sensitization and to address concerns from Kenyans. This will help ensure that livestock keepers understand the benefits of vaccination and actively participate in the program. For vaccination campaigns to be successful, a specified minimum coverage needs to be achieved.
"In the current heated climate, that objective cannot be met. Rushing forward to carry out this program when majority of Kenyans are clearly not willing will lead to unmitigated failure. It would only lend credence to fears that this exercise is meant to siphon budgeted funds.," KVA stated.
Read More
At the same time, the association cited challenges stemming from the devolution of veterinary services, arguing that county governments have poorly resourced veterinary departments, which are ill-equipped to implement the nationwide vaccination exercise effectively.
Additionally, the association noted that controlling greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in livestock production systems is not a priority for Kenya, as most livestock in the country is raised in organic systems.
KVA further highlighted that methane-reducing vaccine technology remains out of reach for most countries, including Kenya.
"The Kenya Veterinary Association stands ready to work with the government and other stakeholders to address these challenges and ensure the success of the livestock subsector. By acting decisively and collaboratively, we can control Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), enhance livestock productivity, secure livelihoods, and regain Kenya’s standing in international trade," KVA remarked.
The association also condemned the politicization of the campaign, stating that such actions distract from the critical goal of disease control and further jeopardize the success of the program.
The statement comes even as President William Ruto defended the planned exercise, dismissing claims that the vaccination could harm animals.
"And I'm wondering, they are saying ridiculous things; they are claiming that with this vaccination cows will not be able to fart. Surely, is there anyone of us who has stopped farting because they have been vaccinated? What kind of nonsense are we engaged in?" the president said on Tuesday, December 17.
