Wajir County, through the Department of Livestock and Veterinary Services in collaboration with the Wajir South Development Association (WASDA), has rolled out a mass livestock vaccination and treatment programme, aimed at protecting the livelihoods of pastoral communities.
Speaking in Wajir during the launch, the Chief Officer for Livestock and Veterinary Services, Omar Adan, stated that the campaign aims to vaccinate over 120,000 sheep and goats in Wajir South and Wajir West sub-counties over the next ten days.
He said the focus is on combating Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) and Contagious Caprine Pleuropneumonia (CCPP), the two highly contagious diseases that pose a significant threat to livestock health and food security in the region.
“This programme addresses immediate livestock health challenges while enhancing their resilience and productivity,” said Omar.
He emphasized the severe impact of transboundary animal diseases like PPR and CCPP, which can devastate herds, resulting in economic losses and endangering livelihoods.
In addition to vaccinations, the campaign includes mass deworming and treatments for sick and weakened animals, ensuring a comprehensive approach to livestock health.
At the same time, the chief officer acknowledged the critical role of WASDA in supporting pre-vaccination disease surveillance and training Community Disease Reporters (CDRs) in all six sub-counties.
“Their work has been instrumental in strengthening disease monitoring and response across Wajir,” he added.
The Department of Livestock and Veterinary Services has urged herders, families, and communities to participate in the free programme, ensuring their livestock receive essential care.
The teams have been mobilised to reach every corner of Wajir County to meet the vaccination targets.
By Hamdi Buthul
