Mbarara City’s Foot and Mouth Disease task force has decided to lift part of the quarantine put in place two weeks ago. The quarantine was enforced to control the spread of the outbreak.
Dr. Rose Anna Ademun, the Commissioner of Animal Health, initially ordered a complete livestock quarantine for Mbarara City due to the outbreak of Foot and Mouth disease.
To curb the spread of the disease, city authorities implemented various control measures. These measures included restricting the movement and sale of cattle and cattle products from affected areas.
James Mwesigye, the task force chairperson and also the Resident City Commissioner, reports success in preventing the spread of the disease. No new cases have been reported since the ban was enforced.
The decision to partially lift the quarantine follows guidelines from the Ministry of Animal Husbandry. These guidelines require an authorization letter from farm owners, endorsed by the LC1 Chairperson and the City Veterinary Officer, after verifying the farm.
Only Ruti City Abattoir has been permitted to reopen, subject to strict surveillance and adherence to the guidelines.
Dr. Moses Amanyire, the City Veterinary Officer, clarifies that the quarantine hasn’t been fully lifted. Areas still affected by the disease are prohibited from engaging in any livestock business.
The city has implemented checkpoints with foot baths containing disinfectants and increased vigilance. Sensitization efforts have also begun, targeting all farmers with hoofed animals.
Priscah Mulongo, the City Deputy Mayor, emphasizes increased surveillance in affected areas and strict adherence to guidelines in areas allowed to reopen.
Farmers like Samuel Mbangira from Nyakayojo Ward express appreciation for the partial lifting of the quarantine. They credit adherence to regulations for containing the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease in their area.
However, some farmers, like Dan Musiime from Ruti village, highlight challenges in containing the disease, especially due to illegal cattle movement at night. They feel let down by cattle traders despite efforts to comply with regulations.
Frank Nabaasa, the Defence Secretary of Mbarara City Abattoir, welcomes the partial lifting, recognizing the importance of livestock business for their livelihood.
Mbarara City is one of 32 districts in the cattle corridor affected by the Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak last November.
Infected animals typically show symptoms such as mouth and foot blisters, loss of appetite, fever, and reduced milk production.
