Kitui County, July 18, 2024– In a concerted effort to combat Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) disease, the County Government of Kitui, in collaboration with the National Government’s State Department of Livestock Development (Directorate of Veterinary Services), the World Organization for Animal Health, and Veterinaires San Frontiers Germany, today launched the National PPR Disease Vaccination Campaign in Syokithumbi area of Kitui West’s Kithumula kwa Mutonga Ward.
Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), a viral disease caused by a morbillivirus, affects goats, sheep, some wild relatives of domesticated small ruminants, and camels. This disease poses a significant threat to livestock health and productivity.
During the launch, Jonathan Mueke, Principal Secretary in the State Department of Livestock Development, announced the deployment of 700,000 vaccines to Kitui County to support the vaccination exercise. Mueke emphasized the National Government’s commitment to safeguarding livestock health, stating, “These vaccines are part of our broader strategy to eradicate PPR and enhance livestock productivity, ensure food security, and the economic stability of our farmers.”
Kitui Chief Officer for Livestock and Apiculture, Jonathan Kyambi, reiterated the county government’s dedication to improving livestock breeds and overall agricultural output, in line with Governor Dr. Julius Malombe’s 16-sector development plan. “Our goal is to support farmers by providing superior livestock breeds and the necessary resources to boost their livelihoods. This vaccination campaign is a crucial component of this initiative,” Kyambi said.
The PPR vaccination campaign is expected to significantly reduce disease prevalence, thereby improving the quality of livestock in the region. The vaccination exercise is scheduled to commence in Kanziko, Mutha, Ikutha, and Athi areas of Kitui South Sub-County in a fortnight.
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