The County Government of Kitui has intensified its mass livestock vaccination campaign against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), with veterinary teams deployed across all sub-counties to curb the spread of the highly contagious viral disease.
The countywide exercise, targeting cattle, is currently underway in areas including Kitui West and Mwingi West, where animals are being registered and vaccinated to improve traceability and strengthen long-term disease control measures.
Speaking during a monitoring tour, Kitui County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture and Livestock, Stephen Mbaya Kimwele, said the vaccination drive forms part of the county’s sustained strategy to protect farmers’ livelihoods and prevent economic losses linked to FMD outbreaks.
Kimwele noted that Foot and Mouth Disease poses a significant threat to livestock productivity, often leading to reduced milk production, weight loss and restricted livestock trade. He emphasized that proactive vaccination remains the most effective and affordable way to safeguard the livestock sector.
The CECM urged farmers who are yet to present their cattle for vaccination to take advantage of the ongoing exercise, reiterating the county government’s commitment to supporting farmers through preventive animal health programs.
The campaign is expected to cover thousands of cattle across Kitui County as part of broader efforts to enhance livestock health and boost agricultural sustainability.
Friday, February 27, 2026
