Quarantine Lifted on African Swine Fever in Kitui County

By YOANA KIMWELE.

The County Government of Kitui, through its Department of Agriculture and Livestock, has officially lifted the quarantine imposed on pigs and pig products following an outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) last year. The announcement was made by the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture and Livestock, Dr. Kimwele Mbaya, on behalf of Governor Dr. Julius Malombe.

The quarantine, which had been in effect since October 30, 2024, was withdrawn on January 9, 2025, by the government-appointed veterinary officer, Dr. Josephat Maluki. This move comes after successful containment of the ASF outbreak, which caused the death of approximately 350 pigs in Kitui County between September and October 2024.

The outbreak, traced to the introduction of infected pigs from neighboring counties, was exacerbated by free-range farming practices and poor waste management at Kalundu dumpsite. To prevent future outbreaks, the county government has issued strict guidelines for pig rearing, slaughter, and transportation.

New Guidelines for Pig Farmers in Kitui County

1. Ban on Dumpsite Farming: Raising pigs at dumpsites is prohibited under the Public Health Act Cap 242/134.

2. Indoor Rearing: All pigs must be reared indoors, with free-roaming pigs no longer permitted.

3. Controlled Slaughter: Home slaughter is banned. All pigs must be slaughtered at the designated slaughterhouse in Syongila under qualified meat inspection.

4. Disinfection Protocols: Infected farms must disinfect premises using approved chemicals before restocking.

5. Regulated Transport: Pork transportation requires licensed meat carriers and certificates of transport.

6. Movement Permits: Farmers moving pigs between administrative units must obtain movement permits from veterinary offices.

7. Import Restrictions: Importing pigs into Kitui County requires a “No Objection” certificate from the relevant veterinary office.

The Department of Livestock and Apiculture has emphasized the importance of compliance with these guidelines to prevent future ASF outbreaks and improve productivity in pig farming.

Dr. Mbaya urged all stakeholders, including veterinary officers, police commanders, and county enforcement teams, to ensure adherence to these rules. “These measures are not just about disease control but also about securing public health and enhancing pig farming as a sustainable livelihood,” he said.

The County Government has also provided a farmer’s guide on preventing African Swine Fever, underscoring its commitment to supporting farmers.

For more information or to report non-compliance, stakeholders can contact the Department of Livestock and Apiculture in Kitui County.

Edited by TCD Digital Media.

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