Embu County has rolled out a large-scale cattle vaccination campaign to prevent the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) following reports of isolated infections in the region. The highly contagious disease poses a serious threat to livestock, with the potential to cause significant economic losses for farmers.
County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, John Nyaga, urged farmers to cooperate fully with the initiative, noting that the campaign aims to vaccinate approximately 96,000 cattle. “I call upon our farmers to participate actively so that we can safeguard their livestock through vaccination,” Nyaga said.
The vaccination drive involves close coordination with local chiefs and assistant chiefs, who are expected to mobilize farmers and ensure that every eligible animal is vaccinated. Addressing the administrators on Monday, November 10, 2025, Nyaga emphasized that routine vaccination remains the most effective method to prevent FMD, as the disease has no cure.
County Agriculture Chief Officer, Njeru Mwita, highlighted that the recent FMD cases were linked to low vaccine uptake and stressed the importance of full participation this time. “Vaccinating all cattle will strengthen livestock health and help the county remain free from Foot and Mouth Disease,” Mwita said.
The campaign is part of a broader county initiative focused on livestock health and food security. County Commissioner Jack Obuo commended the collaboration between the national and county governments, noting that it promotes agricultural productivity and supports the local economy. He tasked local administrators with sensitizing farmers and ensuring all livestock are presented for vaccination.
Livestock markets, including Karaba Market in Mwea Subcounty, have already witnessed the start of the vaccination exercise. The county government aims to reach every corner of Embu, reinforcing its commitment to protecting farmers’ livelihoods and enhancing the resilience of the livestock sector.
Through this proactive approach, Embu County hopes to prevent a potential FMD outbreak and secure the economic well-being of its farming communities.
