By KT Reporter
Pader District has launched a campaign to vaccinate over 17,000 animals, aiming to curb livestock diseases. To date, 8,873 cattle have been vaccinated across 22 sub-counties and town councils.
The Pader District Veterinary Officer, Saberio Robert Okeny, noted that the first two vaccination rounds in sub-counties of Angagura and Awere were conducted free of charge, but the third round will involve cost-sharing. He highlighted challenges faced, including farmer reluctance due to misinformation about government programs.
“Farmers are reluctant because of misconceptions about government-led initiatives. We need to educate them about the benefits of these campaigns for livestock health and productivity,” said Okeny.
In Lapul Sub-County, poor farmer turnout hindered vaccination efforts against Lumpy Skin Disease and Foot-and-Mouth Disease.
With only three veterinary doctors serving 16 vaccination points, many farmers expected door-to-door services despite designated centers.
“Farmers must take responsibility and understand the importance of these vaccinations,” said Alli Peter Bosco, the LCIII Chairperson of Lapul.
Lapul Veterinary Officer Onyango Bosco added, “We urge farmers to seize these opportunities to prevent future outbreaks.”
The district recently received 20,000 doses for Foot-and-Mouth Disease, 3,000 for Lumpy Skin Disease, and 4,000 anti-rabies vaccines from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries. However, areas like Tumalyec Parish in Laguti Sub-County remain uncovered due to logistical challenges.
Outbreaks of Lumpy Skin Disease have heightened the urgency of the vaccination campaign. In Ogom Sub-County, the disease claimed the lives of four cattle in Otong Parish.
A farmer Oyo Emmanuel described the symptoms as “skin rashes, swelling, and eventual bleeding.”
Dr. Kidega Patrick, a veterinary volunteer, confirmed widespread cases in Labongo-Olung in Pajule Sub-County and urged farmers to act quickly.
“Vaccination is the best way to protect livestock from devastating losses,” said Kidega.
According to a production department survey, Pader District has a livestock population of 101,851 cattle, 110,364 goats, and 26,669 pigs, among others.
The Veterinary Office continues to appeal to farmers, emphasizing vaccination’s critical role in sustaining the district’s agricultural economy. “By cooperating, we can protect our livestock and improve livelihoods,” Okeny reiterated-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
