Uganda’s livestock industry has been plagued by the recurring outbreaks of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), resulting in significant economic losses for farmers and the government.
To combat this, the government has proposed a cost-sharing initiative for FMD vaccination in the Lango and Teso sub-regions, where farmers will contribute USD2 (around Shs7400) per dose of the vaccine, with each animal requiring two doses annually.
This was revealed Thursday State Minister for Fisheries Hellen Adoa during a presser in Kampala, who said that farmers in Lango and Teso regions will cost-share with the government, contributing two dollars per dose of the FMD vaccine, with each animal requiring two doses annually.
According to Hon. Adoa, the policy aims to eradicate the disease, which has caused significant losses to farmers and the government.
This approach is not new, as the Ministry of Agriculture had previously proposed a similar cost-sharing initiative to livestock farmers and local leaders in Eastern Uganda, which was well-received. The goal is to eradicate FMD, which has caused substantial losses to farmers and the government.
The Impact of FMD in Uganda
Over 30 districts have been affected by FMD, including Apac, Amolatar, Bugiri, Bushenyi, and Butaleja.
The disease has resulted in significant economic losses, with estimates suggesting that the government needs USD176 million annually to procure 88 million doses of FMD vaccines. FMD outbreaks have led to quarantines, restricting the movement of animals and affecting the livelihoods of farmers.
Why Farmers Should Embrace Cost-Sharing
Sustainability
Cost-sharing ensures that the vaccination effort is sustainable in the long term, as it shares the financial burden between the government and farmers.
Increased Vaccine Availability
By contributing to the cost of vaccination, farmers can ensure that vaccines are available when needed, reducing the risk of outbreaks.
Improved Livestock Health
Regular vaccination helps maintain herd immunity, reducing the risk of FMD outbreaks and promoting overall livestock health.
Economic Benefits
By reducing the risk of FMD outbreaks, farmers can minimize economic losses and maintain their livelihoods.
The cost-sharing initiative for FMD vaccination is thus a crucial step towards eradicating the disease in Uganda. By embracing this approach, farmers can contribute to a sustainable vaccination effort, improve livestock health, and minimize economic losses.