__________________

LIVESTOCK

The agriculture state minister in charge of animal industry, Lt. Col. Bright Rwamirama, has urged farmers in the cattle corridor districts to remain vigilant and fight the spread of foot and mouth disease (FMD).  

In an interview with New Vision, Rwamirama said his ministry has registered reported FMD cases in the districts of Gomba, Lyantonde and Kiruhura.

Minister Bright Rwamirama addressing journalists at his country home in Isingiro district. (Photo by Abdulkarim Ssengendo)

Rwamirama informed the public that the government has given vaccines to all the affected districts to ensure FMD is controlled and challenged farmers to make proper use of the vaccine.  

The minister expressed disappointment with the leadership of Lyantonde District for opening Kyemamba Market which he said is responsible for the FMD outbreak which has spread to other districts. 

He also reported that there are a few pockets of Anthrax in Rakai District and cautioned members of the public not to eat the meat of the dead animals as this will put their lives at risk. 

“Our laws bar consumption of meat of dead animals. I want to caution people to avoid eating meat of any dead animal because we have cases of Anthrax reported especially in the district of Rakai,” the minister stated.  

He warned farmers and traders that FMD is a very dangerous disease which not only affects animals but also markets, especially exports, and called for the need to invest in preventive measures by avoiding unnecessary movement of animals.

Minister Bright Rwamirama touring Ruhengyere Farm, one of the government ranches located in Kikatsi sub-county, Kiruhura district. (Photo by Abdulkarim Ssengendo)

He said the government is committed to investing more in prevention mechanisms and also pursuing one health concept to make sure all Ugandan animals are traded on the international market 

He challenged the general public to improve their livelihood through farming by participating in government programmes like the Parish Development Model (PDM).  

“You have an opportunity for the government to put money in the lower administrative units at the parish level. This is an opportunity which I challenge all Ugandans to use and better their livelihoods,” Rwamirama said.