PS Mueke addresses public criticism over Kenya’s livestock vaccination campaign

KENYA – Principal Secretary for Livestock Development, Jonathan Mueke, has defended Kenya’s planned nationwide livestock vaccination campaign, targeting 22 million animals, amid significant public debate.  

Speaking during a recent interview on Citizen TV, Mueke clarified that the vaccination campaign is not a response to an immediate crisis but rather a strategic step aimed at safeguarding Kenya’s livestock sector from transboundary animal diseases (TADs) such as foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and peste des petits ruminants (PPR). 

If left unchecked, these diseases threaten to derail Kenya’s agricultural growth and economic aspirations.  

Mueke explained that the campaign aligns with the government’s broader objective of commercialising livestock production. 

“The vaccination program is not just about disease prevention; it’s about ensuring that farmers can tap into lucrative export markets,” he noted. 

He cited past challenges, including losing access to markets in Bahrain and Kuwait due to disease outbreaks, as examples of the economic impact of insufficient vaccination.  

The program also seeks to enhance food safety. While Mueke reassured Kenyans that locally consumed meat and milk are thoroughly inspected and safe, he highlighted that vaccination is a preventive measure to curb future outbreaks that could jeopardise food security and international trade.  

Addressing scepticism and misconceptions

Public scepticism has been one of the hurdles facing the campaign. Some critics question the urgency of the vaccination drive, arguing that resources could be allocated elsewhere. Others fear potential side effects or question the necessity of vaccinating healthy livestock.  

Mueke addressed these concerns head-on, likening the campaign to the voluntary COVID-19 vaccination program. 

“Initially, there was scepticism about the COVID-19 vaccine, but many embraced it as people saw its impact. The same principle applies here,” he stated. 

He emphasised that the livestock vaccination program is voluntary but strongly encouraged to achieve the necessary 85% coverage for effective disease control.  

The PS also shed light on the cross-border challenges of diseases that easily spread from neighbouring countries such as Ethiopia and Somalia. 

He stressed the importance of a robust vaccination strategy to protect Kenya’s livestock and farmers’ incomes.

“Without sufficient vaccination coverage, our farmers and their animals remain vulnerable to devastating outbreaks,” Mueke warned.  

The success of the vaccination campaign hinges on farmer participation. Currently, only 10% of Kenya’s livestock is vaccinated, far below the levels needed to build herd immunity against TADs. 

Mueke called on farmers to embrace the initiative, assuring them that it is a long-term investment in the health and productivity of their animals.  

As Kenya gears up for this ambitious campaign, the government remains steadfast in its commitment to revitalising the livestock sector. 

With locally produced vaccines from the Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute (KEVEVAPI) and a well-coordinated strategy, the vaccination program is positioned as a transformative measure to ensure disease-free herds, boost international trade opportunities, and strengthen rural livelihoods.  

Mueke reiterated the government’s focus on building a resilient livestock sector. 

“Vaccination is a cornerstone of our vision to commercialise livestock farming, improve farmers’ incomes, and secure Kenya’s position as a key player in the global livestock market. This is not just about today; it’s about the future of our farmers and their families.”  

The public remains divided, but as the January 2025 rollout approaches, the government hopes that clarity on the program’s benefits will win over sceptics and rally support for this critical initiative. 

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