1/2/2024
The Minister of Agriculture Hon Frank Tumwebaze has said that Foot and Mouth Disease has affected 36 districts so far and is at risk of affecting others districts if not well checked. This was contained in a statement that Tumwebaze tabled before Parliament regarding foot and mouth disease that affects cattle as was directed by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament Rt Hon Thomas Tayebwa last week.
Frank Tumwebaze also said that all districts neighboring the aforementioned districts are at high risk, under strict surveillance, and the authorities are advised to remain vigilant.
Frank Tumwebaze said that countries that have eradicated the disease don’t allow trade with affected countries or those that control the disease by vaccination.The disease causes economic losses to the farmers & to the country due to disruption in animal production. He added that scientists and economists have estimated the economic cost of the disease to a farmer per unit livestock to be USD 20 per infection. The cost can be higher with repeated infections.
According to Hon Frank Tumwebaze the 36 districts currently affected and under quarantine following the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease include; ,Budaka, Bukedea, Bukomansimbi, Bunyangabu, Butaleja, Fortportal City, Gomba & lbanda, Isingiro, Kabarole, Kasanda, Kayunga, Kazo, Kiboga, Kibuku, Kiruhura, Kumi, Kyankwanzi, Kyegegwa, Kyotera, Luuka, Lwengo, Lyantonde, Mbarara, Mbarara City, Mityrana, Mpigi, Mubende, Nakaseke, Nakasongola, Namisindwa, Ngora, Ntungamo, Rakai, Rwampara and Sembabule.
