Backlash in Kenya over livestock vaccines

|Published 12:00 PM ET, Thursday January 30, 2025|

Kenya’s recent initiative to vaccinate 22 million cattle and 50 million sheep and goats has sparked significant debate among stakeholders. The government asserts that this mass vaccination campaign aims to control diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), thereby enhancing livestock health and opening access to international markets. However, concerns have been raised regarding the program’s transparency and implementation.

The Kenya Veterinary Association (KVA) has expressed apprehension over the lack of stakeholder engagement in the planning and execution of the vaccination drive. KVA Chairman Kelvin Osore emphasized the need for proper public sensitization to address misinformation and encourage participation, warning that without such efforts, the initiative risks failure and could foster suspicion of fund mismanagement.

Robert Nkukuu, who keeps cattle in the Mai Mahiu area of Nakuru County—some 50km (30 miles) north-west of the capital, Nairobi, explained how it had become a toxic issue since President William Ruto announced the plan last November.

“If the community here learns you are pro-vaccination, they will slay you just now. So stop talking about it, we don’t want it,” he told the BBC.

In response to these concerns, President William Ruto has strongly defended the vaccination program, criticizing those opposing it as uninformed. He emphasized that the initiative is crucial for disease control and for enabling Kenyan farmers to access international markets.

Concurrently, discussions are underway regarding methane emissions from livestock, particularly cattle. Agriculture is a significant contributor to Kenya’s greenhouse gas emissions, with livestock farming being a primary source of methane. Efforts are being made to reduce these emissions through improved livestock management practices, such as better feeding strategies and disease control, which can enhance productivity while mitigating environmental impact.

The intersection of livestock health initiatives and environmental considerations underscores the need for comprehensive strategies that address both agricultural productivity and climate change mitigation. Engaging stakeholders transparently and basing decisions on scientific evidence will be essential in navigating these complex challenges.

For a more in-depth perspective on the ongoing debate surrounding the livestock vaccination program, you may find the following video informative: