Kenya vaccinates over 6,000 cows in Sabatia Sub-County

Africa, Business, Health

AFRICA (Agency Report/Maureen Imbayi) — 28 March 2026 — More than 6,000 cows, representing over 20 per cent of the livestock population in Sabatia Sub-County, have been vaccinated against Foot and Mouth Disease under the ongoing e-Voucher vaccination programme.

Speaking during a Heads of Departments meeting at the DCC’s boardroom, Sub-County Agriculture Officer (SCAO) Robert Anyolo said the target is to vaccinate about 30,000 cows by the end of the exercise.

Anyolo noted that the programme initially faced challenges due to the time-consuming door-to-door visits required to identify and vaccinate animals. However, with the support of chiefs and their assistants, farmers are now being mobilised to bring their cows to central locations for identification and vaccination.

“Just like fingerprints are used to identify people, cows are identified by their muzzles, which are unique to each animal,” Anyolo explained. He encouraged farmers to present all their cows for identification and vaccination, stressing that the process would also help reduce theft by making it easier to track animals.

He added that while the cost of vaccinating one cow is Sh110, farmers are required to pay only Sh50, with the government covering the balance.

Anyolo further highlighted that the programme is part of a nationwide effort to manage livestock diseases, improve breeding and feeding practices, and boost both the quality and quantity of yields.

He also advised farmers to plant crop-friendly trees such as grevillea, fruit trees, and fodder to support sustainable agriculture.