President William Ruto has fiercely defended his government’s ambitious livestock vaccination plan, dismissing opposition as baseless and irrational.
Speaking at the Pastoralist Leadership Summit in Wajir County on December 10, Ruto vowed to press ahead with the initiative, which aims to vaccinate 22 million cattle and 50 million goats and sheep.
“Anybody opposing vaccination is simply mad, unreasonable, and possibly stupid,” Ruto declared.
He emphasized the programme’s critical role in ensuring disease-free livestock, a prerequisite for accessing international markets.
A Game-Changer for Pastoralists
The vaccination campaign, a cornerstone of Ruto’s administration, seeks to elevate Kenyan livestock products to meet international export standards.
The president highlighted the potential for economic growth, noting that the locally developed vaccines would boost pastoralist incomes by unlocking global markets.
“For far too long, our livestock products have failed to meet international requirements.
This initiative will not only control diseases but also boost our economy by unlocking new market opportunities,” Ruto said.
Opposition and Controversy
Ruto’s remarks follow sharp criticism from Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who accused the government of advancing a “sinister foreign agenda.”
Kalonzo expressed concerns over the safety of the vaccines, claiming they could genetically alter livestock with devastating consequences.
“This reckless programme poses severe risks to our people and livestock. We cannot gamble with untested, foreign-developed vaccines,” Kalonzo said on November 15.
Ruto dismissed these claims as fearmongering, reiterating that the vaccines are locally produced and rigorously tested. “This is about securing livelihoods, not advancing foreign interests. Those spreading lies should reflect on whether they truly have the best interests of Kenyans at heart,” he stated.
Political Divide
The vaccination initiative has become a flashpoint in Kenya’s political landscape, with opposition leaders questioning its motives and safety.
Despite the resistance, the Kenya Kwanza administration remains steadfast, framing the programme as a transformative step for the livestock sector.
As Ruto doubles down on his commitment, the vaccination drive promises to be a defining project of his administration.
Whether it fulfills its economic promise or fuels further political discord remains to be seen.
