The Uganda Veterinary Association (UVA) president, Dr. Daniel Kasibule, stepped forward to defend the actions of the Commissioner of Animal Health amid a brewing controversy over a ban on meat trade in Kampala. The ban, purportedly intended to curb the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), has ignited tensions among stakeholders.
Dr. Kasibule emphasized that the enforcement of quarantine measures by the Commissioner is grounded in the Animal Disease Act. He expressed concern that politicizing health issues undermines efforts to combat diseases effectively and poses risks to public health.
“The Commissioner of Animal Health has the authority to declare a quarantine, and she acted within her mandate. Diseases should be addressed through technical means rather than politicization. Neglecting to address such diseases exposes individuals, particularly those engaged in livestock-related enterprises, to significant risks,” stated Dr. Kasibule.
He highlighted the meticulous process involved in declaring a quarantine, stressing that decisions are not made impulsively. Dr. Kasibule urged for adherence to established protocols to ensure the effective management of disease outbreaks.
The controversy arose following the reluctance of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) leaders to implement the quarantine directive issued by Dr. Anna Rose Ademun, the Commissioner of Animal Health. Dr. Ademun’s directive, issued on March 1, cited an FMD outbreak in Kabowa, Lubaga Division, Kampala District.
However, Ms. Minsa Kabanda, the Minister for Kampala City and Metropolitan Affairs, indicated that the ban on meat sales in Kampala would not be enforced, citing guidance from higher authorities. This stance was further supported by Lt Col (Rtd) Dr. Bright Rwamirama, the State Minister for Animal Industry, who stated in a letter dated March 11 that the reported FMD case had been managed.
Despite the opposition to the ban, Dr. Kasibule reiterated the importance of disease containment measures, drawing parallels with the challenges faced during the COVID-19 quarantine period. He emphasized the availability of alternative protein sources and urged for collective efforts to safeguard public health.
The Animal Disease Act, particularly Section 11, empowers the Commissioner of Livestock and Entomology to impose restrictions on slaughter animals for the purpose of disease prevention. Dr. Kasibule reaffirmed that such actions are guided by established legal provisions and technical considerations to mitigate disease transmission risks effectively.
