The Ministry of Agriculture in Uganda is urgently seeking a supplementary budget of approximately Shs76 billion ($20 million) to combat the ongoing Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak that has affected more than 30 districts.
Minister Frank Tumwebaze, the head of the ministry, has initiated discussions with the Ministry of Finance to secure the necessary funds ahead of a Cabinet meeting scheduled for next Monday.
The proposed budget aims to procure 10 million doses of vaccines to cover all affected and high-risk districts, providing a comprehensive strategy to curb the spread of the viral disease.
Minister Tumwebaze emphasized the need for disease surveillance tools, resources, and infrastructure, including motorcycles, facilitation, and additional personnel for district veterinary officials.
Numerous legislators expressed their support for the supplementary budget, acknowledging the urgency of intervention for farmers and households dependent on the animal industry.
The Ministry of Agriculture had previously instituted a ban on the movement of animals, closed cattle markets, and halted the sale of animal products in affected districts.
The affected districts, including Sembabule, Mubende, Gomba, Kyotera, Fort Portal City, Rakai, Ngora, Kibuku, Mbarara City, Bukedea, and Butaleja, continue to grapple with the repercussions of the outbreak. An additional 29 neighboring districts are considered high-risk and are under strict surveillance.
Minister Tumwebaze attributed the continued spread of FMD to connivance between local political leaders, enforcement personnel, and veterinary officers, circumventing the implemented measures.
The quarantine measures, which have impacted livelihoods and businesses, will remain in place until the vaccines are purchased, distributed, and vaccinations are completed.
As of now, the ministry has acquired and distributed 2.5 million doses for ring vaccination, with an additional 2.3 million doses expected in the coming month.
Minister Tumwebaze informed Parliament that the ministry would require $176 million (Shs671b) to vaccinate the estimated 44 million animal herd twice a year, as mandated.
Despite the perceived affordability of the $2 (Shs7,600) per dose among farmers, delays in procurement are attributed to a complex supply chain, with the government being the sole importer of vaccines.
The Cabinet is expected to discuss the possibility of cost-sharing between farmers and the government, potentially allowing farmers to purchase vaccines directly if approved.
Legislators from affected areas expressed concerns and called for alternative solutions, including opening up the importation of vaccines to farmer cooperatives.
The ongoing crisis has prompted questions about the government’s strategy and planning for eradicating FMD, with calls for proactive measures to prevent future outbreaks.
