(Wajir) – Wajir County has launched a large scale livestock vaccination and treatment programme to protect the livelihoods of pastoralist communities.
The initiative, organized by the Department of Livestock and Veterinary Services in collaboration with the Wajir South Development Association (WASDA), aims to improve livestock health across the region.
Chief Officer for Livestock and Veterinary Services Omar Adan announced during the launch that the campaign will target more than 120,000 sheep and goats in Wajir South and Wajir West sub-counties over the next ten days.
The primary focus of the programme is to combat two highly contagious livestock diseases: Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) and Contagious Caprine Pleuropneumonia (CCPP). Both diseases have been identified as significant threats to animal health, food security, and the economic stability of pastoralist families.
“This programme addresses immediate livestock health challenges while enhancing their resilience and productivity,” Adan explained.
Transboundary animal diseases like PPR and CCPP have devastating effects on livestock, often leading to substantial economic losses. By tackling these diseases, the county aims to safeguard the region’s livestock-dependent economy.
In addition to vaccinations, the campaign includes mass deworming and treatments for sick or weakened animals. This comprehensive approach ensures that livestock receive holistic care, improving their overall health and productivity.
| Campaign Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Target Areas | Wajir South and Wajir West |
| Animals to Be Vaccinated | 120,000 sheep and goats |
| Focus Diseases | PPR, CCPP |
| Additional Treatments | Deworming and sick animal care |
WASDA has played a crucial role in the success of this campaign. The organization supported pre-vaccination disease surveillance and provided training for Community Disease Reporters (CDRs) across all six sub-counties. These efforts have strengthened disease monitoring and improved the county’s response capabilities.
Adan praised WASDA’s contributions, noting that their work has been instrumental in ensuring effective disease control and prevention.
The county has called on herders, families, and communities to take full advantage of the free programme. Veterinary teams have been mobilized across Wajir County to reach every eligible household and achieve the vaccination targets.