Narok county government in partnership with Kenya Wildlife Trust has launched mass livestock vaccination against Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP) and Blue Tongue (BT) diseases in areas adjacent to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve.
Speaking while launching the 20-day exercise at Lamek area in Narok West Sub County, Narok County Executive in charge of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Joyce Keshe said the exercise targets to vaccinate over 160, 000 cattle and 160, 000 sheep and goats.
The free vaccination exercise is being conducted under the Mara Predator Programme that is divided into 20 clusters, where all livestock farmers in the wards neigbouring the Game Reserve will benefit from the vaccination.
She said the exercise also entails data collection of the livestock in the area, active surveillance, clinical diagnostics and treatment.
The wards targeted are: Mara, Siana, Naikkara and Maji Moto wards that neighbour the game reserve.
Ms Keshe hailed the relationship between Kenya Wildlife Trust and the County government that has made the vaccination exercise possible, adding they will continue supporting the pastoralist community through sustainable agricultural practices.
Present during the vaccination exercise were Narok Director of Veterinary Services Dr Gideon Nkeyasha and Chief Officer, Agriculture, Ms Ivy Chemtai.
Livestock farmers in the area commended the ongoing exercise saying it will improve their production as their animals will be healthy.
Mzee Kilesi Ole Nchoe said the diseases targeted have been a major threat to the farmers for many years as they are costly to treat.
He called on farmers to cooperate with the veterinary officers on the ground who are undertaking the exercise and avail their livestock for vaccination whenever they are called upon.
“Remember vaccination is the only sure way of keeping your livestock from diseases and also prevent the spread of disease to neigbouring farms,” said Ole Nchoe.
The Maa community that neighbours the Maasai Mara Game reserve depends on livestock farming for their livelihood. Improved livestock production therefore translates to improved food security and a better economy for the people.
By Ann Salaton
