Simpson M
Councilors in Nyakishenyi sub-county, Rukungiri district, have expressed their deep concern about the rising deaths of cattle in Murama and Rwanyundo parishes due to an unidentified cattle disease.
During today’s sub-county council meeting at Nyakishenyi sub-county headquarters, chaired by Lovence Asiimwe, the Nyakishenyi sub-county speaker, councilors highlighted the severity of the issue. Murama Parish Councilor, Boniface Tumwesigye, reported that twenty-nine cows have already succumbed to the mysterious ailment in their area. They have urgently contacted the sub-county veterinary officer to notify the Rukungiri district veterinary office and seek assistance in finding a solution.
Farmers in Kiganda village, who have lost animals to the disease, described symptoms such as weakness, leading to the inability of the cattle to stand, and diarrhea, resulting in death within days. The affected farmers, whose livelihoods depend on their cattle, expressed deep concern, especially considering the upcoming school term and the need to pay school fees for their children.
Lawrence Twikyirize, a Councilor from Katonya parish, mentioned that two cattle in his area have died under similar circumstances. Alarmed by the situation, he highlighted the risk to people’s lives, as some have consumed the affected animals.
In light of the crisis, the councilors are appealing to the government, particularly the Rukungiri district veterinary office, to intervene. They emphasize the importance of checking the safety of meat, especially during the festive season when many animals are slaughtered. The councilors stressed the need for swift action to identify the cattle disease in the area.
Efforts to obtain a comment from the Rukungiri district veterinary officer proved unsuccessful as his known contact was unreachable. However, the acting district production officer, Mr. Oneck Pius, assured our reporter that measures are being taken to identify the cattle disease in the affected area.
