Kampala, Uganda | NOW THEN DIGITAL — Thousands of jobs and livelihoods are on the line due to an unannounced ban on meat trade in Kampala. The government took this step to curb the spread of a dangerous animal disease.
Last month, the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industries and Fisheries (MAAIF) declared an immediate quarantine on livestock across the entire Kampala Capital City after an outbreak of foot and mouth disease in Rubaga Division.
In a letter dated March 1, Dr. Anna Rose Ademun, the Commissioner for Animal Health, instructed the Executive Director of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to halt the movement of livestock within the city. Livestock markets, slaughterhouses, and other related facilities were ordered to close immediately.
Foot and mouth disease (FMD) is highly contagious and can affect both animals and humans. Eating meat from infected animals can transmit the disease, which can be especially dangerous for children.
The ban has far-reaching consequences as Kampala serves as a major market for livestock products, with five of the country’s largest abattoirs located there. While the authorities are working to enforce the ban, some butcheries were still selling meat without restriction.
Mr. Robert Kalumba, the deputy spokesman of KCCA, acknowledged the economic impact but emphasized the priority of public safety. However, there was little communication with butchers’ associations regarding the quarantine order.
Efforts to contain FMD have been ongoing, including mass vaccination campaigns. However, challenges such as counterfeit vaccines persist, hindering control measures.
President Museveni announced collaboration with scientists in Botswana to develop an affordable FMD vaccine, showing a proactive approach to addressing the issue.
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