Eliye – 16th May, 2024

The County Government and Veterinaires Sans Frontiers (VSF) Germany has conducted comprehensive training for Turkana Central Sub-County Community Livestock Disease Reporters (CDRs).

The 10 CDRs, drawn from Kangatotha, Kerio Delta, and Kalokol Wards, have been trained on prioritized livestock diseases and aspects of livestock production to bolster their skills in surveillance as well as production.

Addressing the CDR trainees, Chief Officer for Livestock Development Dr Ezekiel Etelej said that the plan was to train them to subsequently employ their skills at the grass root level.

“This training will not only help on disease surveillance but also extend veterinary services to the village units,” he said.

Dr Etelej highlighted the importance of investing in livestock disease reporting which he said is part of the Governor’s commitment in enhancing food security and livelihoods.

“The main source of livelihood in Turkana is largely pastoralism. With improved early disease detection and prevention, we can protect our livestock to enhance production for our benefit,” he said.

He added that the Governor had also directed the allocation of more funds for restocking and animal feeds given the impacts of the unpredictability of climate patterns.

The VSF Germany’s Field Veterinarian, Dr. Simon Topisia, appreciated the County Government for supporting the training and he said the refresher course will help improve reporting by the CDRs.

“The CDRs will also be given smartphones and taken through the application system to understand its operation for effective and efficient reporting through E-Surveillance,” he added.

Director for Veterinary Services, Dr Benson Longor, assured the trainee CDRs of the Directorate’s support in the provision of essentials needed to realize their potential.

The training was facilitated by James Ekuwom (Livestock Production) and Agnes Mukunya (Veterinary Services).