Nasinyono – 3rd March 2025 (Public Communications and Media Relations)

To safeguard the health and livelihoods of pastoralist communities, the County Government in collaboration with Welthungerhilfe Kenya (WHH) have conducted a livestock vaccination campaign across Nachuro and Nasinyono in Lokichoggio and Turkana West sub-counties respectively.

The nine – day initiative, is part of an AA/GFFO (Germany Federal Foreign Office) funded project, seeking mitigate the adverse effects of water scarcity and hunger through WASH and provision of emergency assistance to vulnerable communities. The exercise reached over 70,000 animals which directly benefited 567 households.

During the exercise, livestock were vaccinated against diseases such as Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) and Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD). Animals showing signs of mange received specialized treatment, while entire flock underwent deworming to reduce the burden of internal parasites.

Chief Officer for Livestock Development, Dr Gilchrist Lokoel, reported that 38,036 goats and 29,361 sheep were vaccinated against PPR and dewormed.

Additionally, 3,228 cattle were vaccinated against LSD, a disease that has severely impacted livestock in the region.

“This campaign, in partnership with WHH, is vital in reducing disease outbreaks, decreasing livestock mortality rate and improving overall animal health,” Dr Lokoel stated. “It also helps combat issues like worm infestations and flea-related diseases, which significantly impact productivity.”

Beyond vaccination drive, the program has also emphasized veterinary extension services, educating pastoralists on the importance of vaccination, deworming and supportive treatment.

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by border regions, Dr Lokoel announced that the initiative will prioritize these areas in the coming months.

“In addition to vaccinations, routine disease surveillance and assessments will be conducted as needed,” he added.

To enhance disease monitoring, the county is also strengthening the training of Community Disease Reporters (CDRs) in border areas.

By improving real-time reporting, the government aims to curb cross-border disease outbreaks, ultimately protecting livestock health and boosting livestock production.

CCO Lokoel also revealed that the county will distribute range cubes as supplementary feed to help sustain livestock during harsh conditions amid the drought situation.

WHH played a crucial role by providing logistical support and personnel, while the county ensured the availability of essential veterinary supplies.

As part of the broader disease control strategy, blood samples from sick animals were also collected for laboratory analysis, particularly to investigate suspected cases of brucellosis and other infectious diseases.

The CCO was also accompanied by Director of Veterinary Services Dr Benson Longor, his deputy Dr Erenius Nakadio and the WHH supervision team.