Namisindwa District has lifted the quarantine imposed in July to contain an outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), following a significant reduction in reported cases. The quarantine, imposed on July 15, was lifted effective September 8, according to Chief Administrative Officer Joseph Lomongin.
In a notice addressed to district leaders, veterinary officers, extension workers and other stakeholders, Lomongin said the decision followed an assessment by the District Veterinary Office. “According to the report from the District Veterinary Officer (DVO), there has been a significant reduction in the reported cases of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in the district,” Lomongin said.
He added that the lifting of the quarantine was based on the improvement in the disease situation and advice from veterinary authorities. “Following the improvement in the FMD situation and based on the advice of the District Veterinary Office, the District Local Government has therefore lifted the quarantine that was imposed on 15th July 2026, with effect from 8th September 2026,” he said.
However, Lomongin cautioned livestock owners, farmers and traders against relaxing measures aimed at preventing a resurgence of the disease. “The lifting of the quarantine does not exempt livestock owners, traders, farmers and other stakeholders from complying with the requirements for prevention and control of FMD,” he said. He said livestock intended for sale or movement outside the area must meet vaccination requirements.
“Any animal intended for sale in a livestock market or movement to another sub-county or district must have a valid FMD vaccination card as proof of vaccination,” Lomongin said. He warned that animals without vaccination documentation would not be allowed into livestock markets or moved to other areas.
“Animals without valid FMD vaccination documentation shall not be permitted for such movement or entry into livestock markets,” he said. The district imposed the quarantine in July after an outbreak that had reportedly resulted in more than 21 cattle deaths. At the time, authorities banned the movement of livestock into and out of the district and closed cattle markets. The lifting of the restrictions is expected to allow livestock trade to resume, although authorities have retained vaccination requirements as a safeguard against a fresh outbreak-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
