Senior Reporter
Authorities in Sheema District announced the partial reopening of livestock markets on Monday after being closed for two months due to foot and mouth disease.
The announcement was made at the district headquarters in Sheema Municipality by Deputy RDC Sam Evidence Orikunda and LCV Chairperson Jemmimah Buhanda, alongside other leaders.
The decision to partially reopen the markets came after 300 livestock farmers and traders protested at the district headquarters, expressing frustration with the continued quarantine despite their areas being unaffected.
However, markets in Rugarama, Masheruka, Kiziba Ward, Karera South and North, and Rushozi Ward remained closed due to high cases of foot and mouth disease. Deputy RDC Sam Orikunda, along with the security committee, decided to partially reopen the markets, citing shortcomings in the work of the veterinary desk.
However, Sheema’s veterinary officer, Dr. Joseph Amanya, refused to endorse the document lifting the quarantine, stating that it was done without their knowledge or advice and was influenced by political factors.
