Wajir, Kenya(Mogadishu24)-Kenyan President William Ruto has defended the nationwide livestock vaccination programme set to begin in January 2025, targeting 22 million cattle and 50 million goats and sheep. Speaking during the closing ceremony of the 4th Pastoralist Leadership Summit in Wajir County, the President dismissed leaders opposing the initiative, calling them “unreasonable.”

Ruto emphasized that the vaccination drive, using locally produced vaccines from the Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute (KEVEVAPI), will protect livestock from diseases like foot-and-mouth disease and unlock Kenya’s meat export potential.

“Those opposing the programme are unreasonable and maybe they don’t have cattle. When we have a conversation about livestock, just shut up if you don’t have cattle,” President Ruto remarked.

He noted that diseases have stalled the immense potential of the livestock sector, preventing Kenya from accessing international meat markets.

“The vaccines we are using are produced by Kenyans. We even supply some to other countries,” he added.

The vaccination programme, which focuses on combating trans-boundary diseases, is part of broader government efforts to support the pastoralist regions. Ruto urged leaders and residents in ASAL (Arid and Semi-Arid Lands) regions to support the initiative for the benefit of the economy and livelihoods.

The President further highlighted the government’s commitment to improving the pastoralist sector, reiterating its role in driving economic transformation in Kenya.