Agriculture Cabinet Secretary nominee Mutahi Kagwe on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, took a firm stance on the planned livestock vaccination drive which had sparked mixed reactions from Kenyans.
Appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Appointments at Parliament buildings in Nairobi, the former Health Cabinet Secretary indicated that if his nomination was approved, the vaccination drive would be made optional.
The Agriculture Cabinet Secretary nominee argued that the vaccine could only be administered if farmers gave direct permission.
He ruled out the possibility of compelling farmers to subject their livestock to the jab.
While clearing the air on the controversial livestock vaccination drive, Kagwe promised to engage experts and other stakeholders to create proper public awareness of the importance of the jab if approved by the House.
“On the livestock vaccine, we need to involve all relevant stakeholders with the right information. The owner of the livestock has a choice on whether their livestock should or should not be vaccinated,” Kagwe stated.
“I will use the experts to communicate the issue and to help demystify the misconceptions around the vaccine,” he added.
Vaccination to go on
Kagwe’s remarks came days after President William Ruto announced that despite opposition from leaders the vaccination programme against diseases will go on.
Speaking during the annual Kimalel Goat Auction in Baringo County in December 2024, Ruto said detractors opposed to the programme would not stop its implementation.
He said the government would proceed, noting that farmers deserve quality animals whose products are in demand globally.
“We are determined to carry out the vaccination programme for our livestock in an effort to increase prices for our livestock products and meet international market standards,” he said.
He pointed out that local vaccines produced in Kenya will be used to boost animal health and meat export potential, saying those opposed should also give their alternatives.
“We are using vaccines produced locally by Kenyan scientists with knowledge in this field,” he reiterated.
However, in subsequent public announcements, Ruto softened his stance saying that the vaccination drive would not be mandatory.
While launching the drive in November 2024, Ruto said 22 million cattle and 50 million goats and sheep would be vaccinated.
