Gov’t seeks Shs 670bn for FMD vaccines

Among the policy considerations to be deliberated by the ministers is the method to secure funding for acquiring vaccines intended for more than 44 million animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs nationwide.

Minister of Agriculture, Hon Frank Tumwebaze, informed Parliament on Thursday that a staggering $176 million, equivalent to approximately Shs. 670 billion, is required to procure 88 million doses for the bi-annual vaccination mandate, costing USD 2 per dose. The minister expressed that this financial burden is presently beyond the government's capacity to meet.

"The government acknowledges the financial strain that would result from fulfilling the bi-annual mass vaccination requirement and has been examining this financial implication," stated Tumwebaze.

To address the funding challenge, Tumwebaze informed the House that the Cabinet is exploring various measures, including cost-sharing, where farmers would contribute a portion of the expenses for the vaccines.

FMD has been confirmed in 36 districts, all currently placed under quarantine. These districts include Budaka, Bukedea, Bukomansimbi, Bunyangabu, Butaleja, Fortportal City, Gomba, Ibanda, Isingiro, Kabarole, Kasanda, Kayunga, Kazo, Kiboga, Kibuku, Kiruhura, Kumi, Kyankwanzi, Kyegegwa, Kyotera, Luuka, Lwengo, Lyantonde, Mbarara, Mbarara City, Mitrana, Mpigi, Mubende, Nakaseke, Nakasongola, Namisindwa, Ngora, Ntungamo, Rakai, Rwampara, and Sembabule.

While the government allocates a budget for FDM procurement, the vaccines covered by this budget cater to just over 1.1% of the animal population.

In response to the surge in FMD cases last year, the ministry procured 2.56 million doses for distribution across 94 districts.

Despite farmers' discontent with the strict quarantine measures and closure of animal markets, Minister Tumwebaze indicated that these measures are likely to persist for a considerable duration.

"Quarantines are unpopular and inconvenient for people's livelihoods, yet essential as temporary measures to contain further spread to alarming and uncontrollable epidemic levels," he explained.

Tumwebaze outlined a plan where quarantine restrictions will endure until the country obtains the FMD vaccine, and distribution, vaccinations, and laboratory testing are executed concurrently. This comprehensive approach aims to safeguard animals, control FMD, and facilitate the trade of animals and animal products.

Furthermore, the minister emphasized that vaccination will be mandatory, with proof of vaccination required as a prerequisite for animal movement and market access for animals and their products. He sought the support of Parliament in achieving the goal of eradicating FMD from Uganda.