Nandi County authorities have announced a one-month ban on the movement of cattle, sheep, and pigs following an outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) affecting five of the county’s six sub-counties. The directive, issued by the Department of Livestock under Chief Officer Dr. Paul Sanga, accompanies a mass vaccination campaign targeting nearly 300,000 animals. The initiative also covers Anthrax and Black Quarter, aiming to curb disease spread and safeguard farmers’ livelihoods. County Director of Veterinary Services Dr. Samson Bitok confirmed that livestock sale yards across the county will remain closed to facilitate the quarantine and vaccination exercise.
FMD, a highly contagious viral infection, causes blisters in the mouth and hooves, drooling, and reduced milk production, leading to significant economic losses if uncontrolled. Dr. Bitok urged farmers to monitor their herds for symptoms, provide affected animals with carbohydrate-rich fluids, and apply antiseptic disinfectants. The vaccination campaign is part of the broader National Government effort to secure disease-free certification for Kenyan livestock, opening access to international markets and enhancing competitiveness for meat and dairy products. Farmers across Nandi have welcomed the initiative, emphasizing its importance in protecting incomes and preventing livestock theft, a frequent challenge in the region.
Looking ahead, veterinary officials expect the campaign to stabilize livestock health and boost milk production in the coming years. Integration with digital tracking and cooperative frameworks will enable farmers to access veterinary support, insurance, and credit more efficiently. This is a critical step toward ensuring a resilient livestock sector, healthier herds, and sustainable farmer incomes, said Dr. Sanga. With effective vaccination and compliance with movement restrictions, Nandi County aims to position itself as a model for livestock disease management in Kenya while expanding local and international market opportunities for its animal products.