The Kenya Veterinary Association (KVA) has boldly stepped forward to challenge the government’s controversial plan to vaccinate 22 million cattle beginning January next year.

Citing a lack of public participation and unanswered questions, KVA has urged the government to suspend the program to allow adequate engagement with stakeholders.

In a candid statement on Tuesday, KVA National Chairman, Dr. Kelvin Osore, criticized the government’s failure to consult veterinary experts.

Livestock farmers, and other key stakeholders during the program’s conception.

According to Dr. Osore, the rushed implementation has fueled widespread resistance and misinformation among farmers and the general public.

“The government failed to involve us from the beginning.

Now, they are trying to force this program on people without providing clear information,” Dr. Osore said.

He emphasized that stakeholders deserve to understand the diseases being targeted, the rationale behind the campaign, and the identity of the program’s sponsors.

Dr. Osore further questioned the government’s claims of curbing greenhouse gas emissions through livestock vaccination, dismissing it as a misplaced priority.

“Greenhouse emissions are not a pressing concern for farmers at the moment. The government needs to address immediate issues affecting the livestock sector,” he stated.

KVA argued that a nationwide vaccination campaign may be unnecessary since some of the identified diseases, such as Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), are localized.

The association urged the government to adopt a regional approach tailored to specific areas affected by outbreaks.

“You cannot vaccinate the entire country for diseases that are only present in certain regions.

It’s impractical,” Dr. Osore pointed out. He added that the association has struggled to get clarity on the program’s duration and funding.

KVA also condemned the government’s use of harsh rhetoric to sway public opinion, calling instead for dialogue and transparency.

“The cow belongs to the people, not the government,” Dr. Osore declared.

While the association expressed full support for strategic disease control measures, it urged the government to first address other urgent issues in the livestock sector.

Until then, KVA insists the vaccination program should be suspended.

“The government must hit pause and listen to stakeholders.

This program needs clarity, transparency, and proper planning,” Dr. Osore concluded.

The government’s plan targets 22 million cattle, alongside 50 million goats and sheep, sparking debate across the livestock farming community.

KVA’s firm stance now amplifies growing calls for accountability and a people-centered approach.