Kenya Tsetse and Trypanosomiasis Eradication Council KENTTEC, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, has launched a 2023-2027 plan to eliminate tsetse flies and sleeping sickness in Kenya.
KENTTEC is key to eradicating the Tsetse fly, which causes Trypanosomiasis, affecting in livestock, wildlife, and human beings.
Agriculture and Livestock Development CS Dr. Andrew Karanja stressed the strategic plan’s importance for boosting livestock productivity and improving food security, especially in pastoralist areas.
This milestone strengthens Kenya’s efforts to boost productivity in the beef, dairy, and leather industries, aligning with our national economic transformation agenda.
The launch of Kenya Tsetse and Trypanosomias Eradication Council KENTTEC strategic Plan
“This strategic plan aligns with our broader goal of transforming Kenya’s agricultural sector.
By eliminating tsetse flies, we will safeguard the health of millions of livestock and people, boost the agricultural economy, and contribute to national development.” Said Dr. Karanja.
Dr. Seth Onyango KENTTEC CEO emphasized that the strategic plan represents a comprehensive approach to tackling the persistent threat of trypanosomiasis.
“This disease has been a major challenge in our livestock sector, affecting both the health of animals and their productivity.
With the launch of this plan, we are confident that we can significantly reduce, and eventually eradicate, the tsetse fly menace by 2027.” He stated.
He also emphasized on the importance of collaboration between different stakeholders, including county governments, research institutions, and local communities.
“We need concerted efforts to make this a reality. The involvement of communities in monitoring and reporting, alongside scientific innovations, will be key in ensuring the success of this strategy.” Added Dr. Onyango.
KENTTEC’s plan focuses on public-private partnerships, international cooperation, and using technology to innovate tsetse fly eradication methods.
The strategy outlines specific targets to eliminate tsetse flies and reduce the spread of trypanosomiasis, aiming to enhance the health and economic stability of affected communities.
With this new plan, Kenya is one step closer to its long-term goal of eliminating tsetse flies and controlling trypanosomiasis, which will significantly boost agricultural productivity and support rural development
