By Godfrey Ojore
The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries has lifted the quarantine imposed in Bukedea district on January 25 this year, which had prohibited the movement of cattle, goats, sheep, and their products within, to, and through the affected areas as prescribed by the Animal Disease Act Cap 38.
The quarantine was enforced following an outbreak of foot and mouth disease (FMD) in Komuge, Kidongole, Kachumbala, and Koena sub-counties. Dr Ann Rose Ademun, the Commissioner of Animal Health, stated in a letter that the status report on the FMD outbreak in Bukedea district confirmed that the disease has been brought under control.
“The purpose of this communication, therefore, is to inform you that the quarantine restrictions that had been imposed on Konguna, Kidongole, Kachumbala, and Koena sub-counties due to FMD are lifted with immediate effect,” Ademun said in a statement released on July 26, 2024.
She further noted that increased community awareness about FMD and the strategic ring vaccinations in the affected areas were successful.
The news has been received with joy among farmers in Bukedea district, who depend on selling their livestock to educate their children.
The district authorities also expressed concern over the reduction in revenue they used to get from the cattle markets. Bukedea district has one of the biggest cattle markets in the Teso sub-region, which supports the district.
“It has been tough for our farmers for the last seven months as they were unable to send their children to school since livestock has largely been their source of income,” said Simon Ongura, the district vice chairperson.
