By : Our Reporter

The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), has announced a nationwide compulsory livestock vaccination campaign aimed at eliminating Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD), one of the most persistent threats to the country’s livestock sector.

The vaccination exercise will be conducted in two phases, with the first phase scheduled from July to August 2026 and the second phase planned for January to February 2027.

Under the cost-sharing arrangement, farmers will contribute UGX 8,000 per dose for cattle and pigs, while goats and sheep will be vaccinated at a cost of UGX 4,000 per dose.

The government will meet all additional costs, including vaccine administration and transportation of veterinary personnel.

The nationwide campaign is expected to cover approximately 45.5 million animals, including 15.5 million cattle, 17.4 million goats, 4.4 million sheep, and 7.1 million pigs.

Speaking on the initiative, on June 15,2026 State Minister for Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Bright Rwamirama, emphasized the importance of full compliance with the vaccination program.

“Only vaccinated animals will be granted access to markets and allowed to participate in livestock trade activities across the country,” Rwamirama said.

He urged all livestock farmers to support the exercise, noting that the successful elimination of Foot-and-Mouth Disease is critical to improving livestock productivity, safeguarding farmers’ incomes, and enhancing Uganda’s access to regional and international livestock markets.

“Foot-and-Mouth Disease remains one of the greatest obstacles to the development of Uganda’s livestock industry. We call upon all farmers to cooperate with veterinary authorities to ensure the success of this campaign,” he added.

The government believes the mass vaccination exercise will significantly reduce disease outbreaks and strengthen the growth and competitiveness of Uganda’s livestock sector.