The County Government of Uasin Gishu has launched a comprehensive training exercise for animal health providers who will lead the upcoming Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccination campaign scheduled to begin on October 8, 2025.
Organized through the Department of Agriculture, Agribusiness, Livestock and Fisheries, the training brought together veterinary officers and animal health assistants from across the county in preparation for the mass vaccination exercise.
Speaking during the opening session, Chief Officer for Livestock, Eng. Abraham Kiptalam, emphasized the importance of professionalism and strict adherence to vaccination protocols to ensure the campaign’s success.
“We want to ensure this campaign is effective, efficient, and reaches every farmer. Our teams must maintain the highest standards in handling vaccines and in their engagement with farmers,” said Eng. Kiptalam.
He further noted that farmers’ cooperation will be key to the success of the exercise, highlighting that the campaign aims to safeguard animal health, boost productivity, and expand market access for livestock products.
Eng. Kiptalam also urged animal health providers to strictly observe biosecurity and waste disposal guidelines, cautioning that any vaccine spillage will be the responsibility of the respective veterinary officer. He added that each animal health provider is required to have and maintain their own toolbox and spring injector.
The Chief Officer reminded farmers that the vaccination will be conducted through the e-voucher system and encouraged them to ensure they have sufficient funds in their M-Pesa accounts before the exercise begins.
“The actual cost of the FMD vaccine is KSh 160 per animal. The Government will subsidize KSh 110, and farmers will only contribute KSh 50. This shared responsibility promotes sustainability and ownership of livestock health,” he added.
The training covered key areas such as vaccine handling, cold chain management, animal restraint, data recording, and farmer mobilization — equipping participants with the necessary skills to execute the exercise effectively and efficiently.
Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Philip Biama, underscored the importance of comprehensive vaccination coverage, noting that well-trained personnel are critical to ensuring no herd is left unprotected.
“Mass vaccination remains the most effective way to protect livestock against Foot and Mouth Disease. Proper training ensures vaccines are handled correctly, reach all herds safely, and minimize the risk of future outbreaks,” said Dr. Biama.
The County Government continues to champion animal health interventions as part of Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii Chelilim’s broader commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector, empowering farmers, and promoting sustainable livestock production across Uasin Gishu County.
