National Livestock Vaccination and Identification Campaign Launches
The government has initiated a nationwide livestock vaccination and identification campaign spanning the 2025–2029 period. This initiative focuses on improving animal health, controlling diseases, and enhancing productivity within the livestock sector. A key region in this effort is Iringa, which has set a target of vaccinating over 400,000 livestock.
The programme includes:* 400,000 cattle* 20,000 goats and sheep* 1.5 million chickens
Dr. Jeremiah Choga, the Zonal Veterinary Officer and Head of the Southern Highlands Livestock Disease Investigation Centre (ZVC–Iringa) under the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, explained that the campaign began in June this year. It aims to control livestock diseases and boost productivity across the sector.
“As you may be aware, the livestock sector faces several diseases. The government, through the ministry, has allocated funds for vaccinating animals against different infections,” he said.
“This five-year campaign, which runs until 2029, began with cattle vaccination against contagious bovine pleuropneumonia (CBPP), while in other areas goats, sheep, and chickens are being vaccinated,” added Dr. Choga.
Funding and Implementation Details
The government has allocated Sh216 billion for the implementation of the campaign. This funding also covers the tagging of livestock with identification collars, which is intended to combat theft and improve data management within the sector.
Dr. Choga outlined the benefits of the campaign, stating that it will help establish accurate livestock population data, reduce disease prevalence, improve animal health, and boost productivity in the livestock industry.
In Mafinga Township, local authorities have already made significant progress. They have vaccinated more than 8,000 cattle, representing 88 percent of the target, as part of efforts to eradicate livestock diseases.
Dr. Aldonis Ulimboka, the Mafinga Town Council Veterinary Officer, noted that out of 10,000 targeted cattle, the majority have already been vaccinated and registered under the new livestock identification system.
Community Response and Benefits
Livestock keepers in the region have welcomed the government’s efforts, expressing optimism about the programme’s impact on livestock health and productivity.
“This campaign will help reduce animal deaths and enhance productivity. We are grateful to the government for offering free vaccinations, which will increase farmers’ income and improve our livelihoods,” said a livestock keeper from Changarawe Ward, Gwamaka Mwakang’ata.
Another livestock keeper, Mr. Michael Nyalusi from Ngome neighbourhood, shared similar sentiments. He mentioned that the campaign has already reduced the occurrence of diseases that had long plagued herders in the area.
“The situation has greatly improved. We used to lose many animals to preventable diseases, but this programme has brought real relief to farmers,” he said.
Conclusion
The nationwide livestock vaccination and identification campaign marks a significant step forward in ensuring the health and sustainability of the livestock sector. With a focus on disease prevention, data management, and community engagement, the initiative is expected to bring substantial benefits to farmers and the broader agricultural economy.