Senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), led by Dr James Kakungulu, the Assistant Commissioner for Veterinary Regulation and Enforcement, held a productive engagement with Karamoja Sub-Region leaders in Moroto District to accelerate the ongoing Foot‑and‑Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccine cost-recovery scheme.
The meeting focused on strengthening the approved policy shift in the control of FMD from a ring vaccination to a nationwide biannual compulsory mass vaccination programme through cost-sharing.
The engagement also put emphasis on coordination, ensuring timely vaccine distribution, and addressing field‑level challenges affecting livestock keepers.
During the discussions, MAAIF experts provided updates on vaccine availability, cold‑chain readiness, and priority vaccination zones.
Regional leaders shared insights from their communities, highlighting the need for intensified awareness campaigns, improved reporting channels, and closer collaboration with local veterinary teams.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to protecting livestock health and safeguarding livelihoods. It was agreed that districts will enhance mobilization efforts while the Ministry continues to support with technical guidance, logistics, and monitoring.
This joint effort marks a significant step toward achieving broader vaccination coverage and reducing the risk of FMD outbreaks.
Communities were encouraged to cooperate with veterinary officers and present their animals for vaccination as scheduled.
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