NELSON K
Animal rearers in Kazinga Cell, Bunono Parish, Nyarushanje Sub-County have raised concerns over an outbreak of a livestock disease characterized by cough and severe diarrhea, which they say has killed a significant number of animals, especially goats.
Speaking to Boona Radio, farmers reported that the disease is believed to have started in late June 2025. It presents with symptoms of persistent cough and rapid, watery diarrhea, affecting both young and mature goats, but killing younger ones more quickly.
Representing the animal keepers, Mr. Benon Tukwasbwe said that after noticing the signs in his goats, he ignored unverified advice from unskilled farmers and instead sought help from a veterinary doctor in Kyempene. After explaining the symptoms, he was given advice and medicine that helped save some animals, although he still lost more than eight goats to the disease.
Mr. Benon noted that while the spread of the disease has been slowly decreasing, farmers who failed to seek veterinary treatment continued to lose many animals, leading to heavy financial losses. He also claimed that during the same period, a number of residents in the area showed similar symptoms of diarrhea and cough, raising concern that the disease could also affect humans.
The LC1 Chairperson of Kazinga Cell, Mr. Nebye Willy, confirmed the outbreak, saying it began in late July 2025 and has taken the lives of several domestic animals, especially young goats. He said he personally witnessed the death of over 10 goats in different farms. However, he noted that the disease appears to be slowly fading, giving farmers hope that it might disappear completely.
In response, the Nyarushanje Sub County Veterinary Officer, Mr. Byamukama Precious, told Boona Radio that many farmers fail to report such outbreaks to authorities in time for vaccination and treatment to be carried out. He condemned the delay in reporting and urged all farmers to promptly inform his office whenever they notice unusual symptoms in their animals so that immediate action can be taken. He added that he is aware of the disease and ready to provide solutions.
