SIMPSON M
Farmers in Nyarushanje Sub-county, Rukungiri District, are frustrated by the prolonged delay in lifting the animal quarantine imposed due to foot-and-mouth disease, which has left them unable to access markets and sell their livestock.
The quarantine, now in its ninth month since being enforced by the government in April, continues to affect Rukungiri District despite being lifted in other areas. Farmers, including Lorence Twinamasiko, Lobinah Tugumisirize, and Mathias Turyatunga, have expressed deep concern over the economic challenges it has brought to their families, who rely heavily on livestock sales for survival. They highlighted difficulties in meeting basic needs such as paying school fees and clearing loans due to the closure of animal markets.
The farmers are calling for clarity and immediate action, emphasizing that their livelihoods are at stake.
Former Ruyonza Parish councilor and farmer, Mr. Pauson Kajere Biryomumisho, also voiced his dissatisfaction, questioning why animal markets remain closed when meat is openly sold in towns. He noted that overcrowding on farms due to the quarantine has led to increased theft of livestock, exacerbating their challenges. Mr. Biryomumisho appealed to the authorities for updates on the progress of vaccination and disease prevention, stressing the need for a return to normalcy.
In response, the Rukungiri District Veterinary Officer, Mr. Johnson Ninsiima, explained that the quarantine was imposed to facilitate vaccination and disease control. He assured farmers that significant progress has been made, with no new cases of foot-and-mouth disease reported, and that quarantine lifting now depends on clearance from the Commissioner of Veterinary Health Services.
Dr. Ninsiima added that reports on vaccination and disease surveillance have already been submitted to the ministry for review. He expressed optimism that the quarantine would be lifted soon but urged farmers to remain patient and adhere to the guidelines in place as they await the official announcement.
