Farmers across Uasin Gishu County have been urged to take full advantage of the ongoing livestock vaccination campaign aimed at creating a disease-free zone, boosting productivity, and enhancing access to international livestock markets.

The vaccination drive seeks to protect animals from deadly diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and its variants, which have for years affected livestock productivity and disrupted the livelihoods of thousands of farming families.

Speaking during the official launch held in Kipsomba Ward, Soy Sub-County, Governor H.E Dr. Jonathan Bii Chelilim said the campaign targets 321,000 cattle across all six sub-counties. He emphasized that the exercise is not only about animal health but also about securing farmers’ livelihoods and positioning Uasin Gishu as a leading livestock-producing region in Kenya.

“This campaign is about securing the livelihoods of our farmers. Healthy animals mean better income, better markets, and stronger households,” Governor Dr. Bii stated.

The Governor further noted that international livestock trade now requires proof of vaccination as a prerequisite for export certification, making the exercise key to expanding market opportunities for Uasin Gishu farmers.

As part of modernization efforts, Governor Dr. Bii also unveiled a digital livestock identification system an innovative technology that assigns each animal a unique digital code. Veterinary officers will use mobile scanning devices to create a digital profile for every vaccinated animal by scanning its mouth muscles.

“Just like a fingerprint identifies a human being, this scan gives each animal a digital identity,” Governor Dr. Bii explained. “It will help us track livestock movement, curb theft, and enhance livestock security for our farmers.”

Following the official flag-off, veterinary teams led by the National Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Allan Azegeli, immediately commenced the vaccination exercise. The campaign is expected to cover all six sub-counties within one month, ensuring no farmer is left behind.

Local farmer Mr. Kenneth Maina, whose herd was among the first vaccinated, lauded the county government for prioritizing livestock health.

“We are grateful for this program. Our animals are our main source of income, and protecting them is protecting our future,” said Mr. Maina.

County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Dr. Sam Kotut, said the initiative forms part of a broader county strategy to strengthen disease surveillance, veterinary services, and livestock data management.

He appealed to farmers to cooperate fully with veterinary officers during the door-to-door vaccination exercise to ensure full coverage and success of the program.

Also present during the launch were Area MCA Hon. Mary Goretti, CECM for Health Eng. Joseph Lagat, Chief Officers Elphas Kesio, Nixon Cheplong, and Dr. Paul Wangwe, alongside county and national government officials, veterinary officers, and local farmers.