The Kenya Veterinary Association (KVA) has issued a statement calling for the suspension of the ongoing National Livestock Vaccination Campaign, expressing concerns over the lack of transparency and the rushed nature of the exercise. The association, which represents veterinary professionals across the country, has raised serious objections to the government’s approach, urging for more openness and consultation with key stakeholders before proceeding with the campaign.
In a recent statement, KVA emphasized that the vaccination campaign, which is intended to address the health and well-being of Kenya’s livestock, has been shrouded in secrecy, making it difficult for veterinary professionals and the public to fully understand the objectives, methods, and potential risks involved. The association’s position has sparked significant debate, especially as the government pushes forward with its plans to vaccinate millions of animals against various diseases.
Dr. Okore, a leading spokesperson for the association, called on government officials to ease the heated rhetoric surrounding the campaign, which has, according to him, been used to pressure veterinary professionals into supporting the vaccination without the necessary due diligence. “We reject the harsh rhetoric being used to force acceptance of this program. Our role as veterinarians is to ensure the health and safety of animals and the public, and we cannot endorse an initiative that is not transparent or properly explained to us,” Dr. Okore stated.
Veterinary doctors argue that the lack of proper consultation with the professionals who are most familiar with the livestock sector undermines the credibility of the campaign. They stress the importance of involving the KVA and other relevant bodies in discussions about the best approach to vaccination, including selecting the right vaccines, establishing clear protocols, and ensuring that the campaign is effectively communicated to farmers and livestock owners.
The National Livestock Vaccination Campaign has been presented as a vital step toward curbing livestock diseases that threaten Kenya’s agricultural sector, which is a cornerstone of the country’s economy. However, the concerns raised by the KVA highlight a broader issue of trust and collaboration between the government and the veterinary community.
As tensions rise, the KVA is calling for an immediate suspension of the vaccination exercise until the necessary consultations are carried out. The association believes that a more transparent, inclusive approach will not only improve the effectiveness of the campaign but also ensure that the best interests of both livestock and farmers are safeguarded.
With the campaign set to impact the livelihoods of thousands of farmers across Kenya, all eyes are now on the government to respond to the concerns of the veterinary community and address the growing calls for greater transparency and dialogue.
