KOTIDO, February 24, 2026 — Kotido District Local Government in a pivotal effort to safeguard the livelihoods of pastoralists and bolster food security in the region has officially launched a mass vaccination campaign aimed at combating three contagious livestock diseases.
This campaign kicked off in Lokitalebeu Town Council, marking a significant milestone in the district’s agricultural health initiatives.
The programme is supported by a substantial consignment of 200,000 vaccine doses from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries [MAAIF] in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation [FAO].
The initiative seeks to combat Contagious Caprine Pleuropneumonia [CCPP], Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia [CBPP], and Peste des Petits Ruminants [PPR]—all of which pose severe risks to livestock health and threaten the economic stability of pastoral communities.
Dr. Joseph Longoli, the Veterinary Officer for Kotido district disclosed that the vaccination drive includes 175,000 doses for PPR, 57,000 for CCPP, and 31,000 for CBPP. “These diseases are not only detrimental to animal health but also have far-reaching implications for food security and the livelihoods of families relying on livestock,” he emphasised.
The impact of the vaccination campaign is expected to be profound. According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics [UBOS] Kotido district is home to a vast livestock population, with estimates exceeding 700,000 cattle, over 300,000 goats, and 500,000 sheep.
Longoli states that, “A healthy livestock population is crucial for ensuring economic stability, as it directly correlates with food security and improved quality of life for pastoralist communities.”
George Olanya Ongok, one of the veterinary officers involved in the vaccination campaign, reported some initial successes, stating, “Today, we managed to vaccinate 41 goats against CCPP and PPR, 51 sheep against PPR, and 413 cows against CBPP.”
Despite these figures, Ongok noted a disappointing turnout, attributing it to the recent migration of animals in search of pasture and water. “We understand the challenges facing our pastoralists, and we are committed to working around these obstacles to ensure widespread vaccination.”
The three diseases targeted in this campaign represent significant challenges for livestock farmers. CBPP primarily affects cattle, leading to severe respiratory issues and, in many cases, death. CCPP, which impacts goats, can result in high mortality rates within infected populations.
On the other hand, PPR is particularly concerning as it affects small ruminants like sheep and goats, with the potential for substantial economic losses for pastoralists who depend on these animals for their livelihood.
Pastoralists in the district have been urged to engage actively in the vaccination programme. “By vaccinating our livestock, we are not just protecting our animals; we are investing in the future of our communities,” said Dr. Longoli.
He encouraged all livestock owners to participate in the vaccination campaign, emphasising that the health of livestock is paramount to achieving long-term food security in the region.
While the current turnout is lower than anticipated, Livestock farmers remain optimistic. “We hope that as awareness grows and the benefits of the vaccination become evident, more pastoralists will participate in the campaign,” said Charles Apalomei a livestock farmer.
He added: “It is essential for the community to understand that vaccinating their animals is a protective measure that not only safeguards their livestock but also their sources of income.”
The launch of the mass vaccination campaign in Kotido district marks a crucial step forward in addressing the challenges posed by contagious livestock diseases as the district aims to enhance the health of its livestock population, thereby securing the livelihoods of pastoralists and fostering economic resilience in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.
As the campaign progresses, the veterinary authorities hope to see increased participation, leading to healthier livestock and stronger communities across Kotido district.
https://thecooperator.news/kotido-pdm-sacco-leaders-get-tablets-to-speed-up-disbursement-of-funds/
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