SIMPSON M
Farmers and animal traders in Nyarushanje Sub-county, Rukungiri District, today staged a peaceful demonstration at Musaana Market to express their frustration with the government’s delay in lifting the animal quarantine imposed due to Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).
The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries placed a quarantine on animal movement and livestock markets in Rukungiri District in April last year following an FMD outbreak. Since then, the quarantine has remained in place, leaving farmers and traders in financial distress due to the prolonged closure of livestock markets.
Some farmers, who preferred to remain anonymous, claimed to have incurred significant financial losses, amounting to millions of shillings. They explained that the quarantine has severely affected their financial stability, pushing them into unsustainable debt. Frustrated with the government’s inaction, they decided to open the market themselves, asserting that they would rather face arrest than endure hunger and poverty.
During the demonstration, farmers brought their animals to Musaana Market, while others, fearing repercussions, conducted sales along the roadside near the market. They reported strong demand for livestock, with many animals sold after months of inactivity in the markets.
The farmers are now drafting a petition to the Minister of Animal Husbandry, demanding the immediate lifting of the quarantine. They warned that if their grievances are not addressed, they will continue to use the markets despite potential legal consequences.
Rukungiri District Veterinary Officer, Mr. Johnson Ninsiima, explained that the quarantine was imposed to prevent the further spread of FMD and other animal diseases. He urged the farmers to respect the measures until the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries officially announces the reopening of livestock markets.
Mr. Ninsiima noted that farmers were advised to sell animals directly from their farms to minimize unnecessary movement, which could exacerbate the spread of FMD. He expressed concern over the unauthorized reopening of Musaana Market, emphasizing that it is unlawful and calling on law enforcement authorities to intervene and halt the practice.
He further appealed to the farmers for patience, stating that the quarantine would only be lifted after the ministry has assessed and approved the situation. Prematurely reopening markets, he warned, could worsen the spread of the disease and prolong the restrictions.
