The Parliament, chaired by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, expressed deep concern yesterday regarding the increasing instances of foot-and-mouth disease across the nation. This concern follows the identification of 32 cases in various districts, including Budaka, Bukedea, Bukomansimbi, Butaleja, Fort Portal City, Gomba, Isingiro, Kabarole, Kassanda, Mubende, Kayunga, Kazo, Kiruhura, Kumi, Kyankwanzi, Kyegegwa, Kyotera, Luuka, Lwengo, Lyantonde, Mbarara, Mityana, Mpigi, Nakaseke, Ntungamo, Rakai, Rwampara, and Ssembabule.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa emphasized the urgent need for intervention to support affected farmers, whose livelihoods are intricately linked to their animals. He directed the Minister of Agriculture to provide a statement outlining the duration of the districts’ quarantine, the measures in place, and the necessary assistance required from Parliament and other stakeholders.
Mr. Tayebwa stated, “When you go to your constituency, you will be asked these questions. We need to be brought on board to know how best to respond to these issues.” He requested the Minister of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Fisheries to present a comprehensive statement on Thursday next week regarding the ongoing situation.
In response to the crisis, the government has issued quarantine guidelines in the affected districts, including restrictions on animal movement, closure of cattle markets and butchers, and a ban on trading in animal products from quarantined regions.
However, concerns have been raised about the enforcement of quarantine guidelines by law enforcement authorities. Maj Gen David Kasura Kyomukama, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries, urged the Inspector General of Police to ensure strict adherence to the quarantine measures to prevent further spread and safeguard the livestock sector.
In Nakasongola District, where a quarantine was announced on January 17, officials revealed challenges in enforcing guidelines on animal movements due to the district’s role as a major transit route for animals. Farmers expressed concerns about the safety of meat in restaurants, emphasizing the need for government intervention through vaccine supply.
While some farmers allegedly obtain special permits to move their animals, officials dismiss these claims, stating that strict guidelines prohibit such movements. The affected districts report a delay in the government’s supply of required vaccines, prompting calls for private purchases by individual farmers.
Foot-and-mouth disease is a viral illness characterized by fever and blister-like lesions on the mouths of affected animals. Timely intervention can lead to recovery, but neglect may result in fatalities. The disease spreads through contact with infected materials.
