Kampala.
Kampala, Uganda’s capital, is currently under quarantine due to an outbreak of foot and mouth disease (FMD).
The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries has prohibited the movement of cattle, goats, sheep, and pigs, along with their products, to and from the city.
This decisive measure aims to contain the spread of FMD, first detected in Kampala’s Kabowa area. The quarantine not only affects livestock activities but also has broader implications for the city’s economy and the livelihoods of its residents.
The FMD outbreak was first detected in Kabowa, Lubaga Division in Kampala, as reported on February 28, 2024. Following this discovery, the Ministry swiftly implemented quarantine restrictions on Kampala District by the Animal Diseases Act Cap 38.
Dr. Rose Ademun, the Commissioner of Animal Health, issued a directive to immediately close livestock markets, slaughterhouses, butcheries, loading grounds, and animal shows in the entire district.
Widespread Impact
By the end of February, FMD had spread to numerous districts across Uganda, including Apac, Amolatar, Bugiri, Bushenyi, Hoima, Iganga, Jinja, Kabale, Kamuli, Kasese, Mbale, Mukono, Wakiso, and more.
Initially detected in November 2023 in one of the cattle corridor districts, the disease poses a significant threat to the livestock industry, affecting both animal health and the livelihoods of those dependent on the sector.
Interventions
To curb the spread of FMD, the Cabinet approved the release of Ugx10bn towards the purchase of FMD vaccines for high-risk districts. This financial allocation aims to facilitate veterinary authorities in lifting quarantine restrictions once vaccination efforts prove successful.
However, the challenges in controlling the outbreak are exacerbated by the recurrent lack of compliance among farmers, cattle traders, and district officials responsible for issuing animal movement permits.
Expert Perspectives
Veterinary experts attribute the ease of FMD transmission to the movement of sick animals and inadequate control measures during transportation.
Veterinary and animal health experts highlighted the role of trucks in spreading the disease. During livestock transportation, sick animals can transmit the virus through urine and dung onto the grass in the truck, facilitating infection of other animals.
They further stated the absence of a robust system for monitoring vehicles transporting animals, allowing for the continued movement of livestock despite quarantine regulations.
Ministerial Statements
Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebeze expressed concern over the lack of cooperation and compliance among farmers, cattle traders, and district officials.
He identified these factors as contributing to the rapid spread of FMD. Tumwebeze emphasised the importance of adherence to regulations and urged stakeholders to work collaboratively to contain the outbreak.
Implications for Kampala
The extended FMD quarantine in Kampala will have far-reaching consequences for the city’s economy and its residents.
With the ban on the movement of livestock and related products, businesses such as butcher shops, livestock markets, and slaughterhouses will experience a significant downturn.
This could lead to financial strain for individuals dependent on these activities and a potential increase in unemployment.
Additionally, consumers in Kampala may face shortages and increased prices of meat and dairy products due to the restrictions on transportation.
The overall economic impact on the city could be substantial, with the potential for decreased revenue, disrupted supply chains, and heightened economic uncertainty.
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