Cabinet has given the green light for the procurement of ten million doses of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccine, aiming to intensify ring vaccination in affected areas. Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries Minister Frank Tumwebaze announced this decision, emphasizing the importance of controlling and eradicating the disease.
The government will establish a revolving fund to ensure regular procurement of FMD vaccines. Under the approved policy, farmers will bear the cost of vaccines, while the government will cover vaccination administration, transportation, and storage expenses.
Currently, 36 districts are under quarantine due to FMD outbreaks. To combat the disease effectively, compulsory bi-annual vaccination of susceptible domestic animals will be enforced. Proof of vaccination will be required for any animal sale.
The minister urged district veterinary authorities to enhance disease surveillance and transparency in vaccine administration. Additional support is sought for procuring another 10 million vaccine doses to cover all affected districts.
Dr. Abed Bwanika highlighted the need for efficacious vaccines and called for support to National Research Organisation (NARO) for local vaccine production. Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa deferred further discussion on the matter to the following week.
