President William Ruto has announced that the nationwide livestock vaccination exercise slated for this January will be optional once rolled out
However, the head of state cautioned livestock farmers against rejecting the vaccination programme, insisting it will increase animal output.
Speaking at Kisii State Lodge on New Year’s Eve, President Ruto added that vaccination will enhance the quality of exported meat.
"The nationwide livestock vaccination campaign, set to begin in January, will be voluntary. It will eradicate the threat of disease once and for all," said Ruto.Since launching on November 8, 2024, the vaccination campaign has faced some backlash, with opposition leader Kalonzo Musyoka suggesting that it could be part of a plan by foreign organisations to introduce genetic modifications to reduce methane emissions from animals.
However, Ruto has firmly rejected these allegations, calling them “ridiculous” and unfounded.
“Some leaders are saying ridiculous things. Has anyone been unable to fart because they’ve been vaccinated? Please spare us your ignorance,” Ruto fired back, making it clear that the campaign has no hidden agenda.
