African countries urged to enforce quarantines to tackle livestock diseases

KENYA – Livestock disease surveillance experts across Africa are calling for stricter measures, including quarantines, to control the spread of zoonotic diseases such as Rift Valley fever, anthrax, and brucellosis. 

These diseases, transmissible between animals and humans, pose significant risks to public health, disrupt supply chains, and hinder the continent’s ability to tap into lucrative livestock export markets.  

For example, in Kenya, the livestock sector contributes approximately 40% to the agricultural GDP, underscoring its importance to the national economy. 

However, the emergence of infectious diseases has limited access to premium markets in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, where stringent health standards prevail.  

Isiolo County farmer and Borana community leader Abdullah Gonjobe recently emphasised the devastating impact of these diseases on local farmers, highlighting financial losses and worsened food insecurity.

“These diseases prevent farmers from accessing markets locally and internationally, further driving communities deeper into poverty,” he said.  

Lack of extension services, funding, and early warning systems has exacerbated the problem, leaving pastoralists particularly vulnerable. 

Farmers unable to meet health requirements are often excluded from high-value export markets, perpetuating economic stagnation in livestock-reliant regions.

Government and regional interventions  

Kenya is stepping up efforts to combat livestock diseases. President William Ruto announced a massive vaccination campaign targeting 72 million livestock starting January 2025. 

This initiative aims to boost exports of high-quality livestock products to international markets. Additionally, the government has intensified disease surveillance and vaccination campaigns, especially in pastoral communities.

On the continental level, the African Pastoral Markets Development (APMD) Platform is being championed by the African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. 

This platform seeks to enhance the role of pastoralism in promoting sustainable economic growth and improving livelihoods.  

AU-IBAR Director Huyam Salih highlighted the need for collaboration and innovation to overcome challenges in the livestock sector. 

“By fostering collaboration and embracing innovation, we can unlock new pathways for sustainable growth,” Salih noted. 

The organisation is working on strengthening disease reporting systems, establishing regional disease response strategies, and supporting veterinary services across member states.  

Kenya’s recent signing of the EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) presents a promising opportunity for the livestock sector. 

Under this agreement, increased livestock exports to the European Union are possible, provided Kenya meets the required health standards.  

With coordinated efforts from governments, regional bodies, and the private sector, Africa has the potential to transform its livestock industry into a driver of economic growth and food security. 

However, as experts warn, achieving this vision will require decisive action, including imposing quarantines, enhancing biosecurity practices, and prioritising animal health.

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