EDITOR
The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries has officially lifted quarantine restrictions in Rukungiri District following the successful containment of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), bringing relief to farmers and animal traders.
The quarantine, imposed in April 2024, restricted the movement of cattle, goats, sheep, and their products within markets in the district. The measure, implemented under the Animal Diseases Act, Cap 38, aimed to curb the spread of the highly contagious disease.
According to Rukungiri District Veterinary Officer, Mr. Johnson Ninsiima, the latest status report confirms that the FMD situation in the district has stabilized, prompting the immediate lifting of the quarantine restrictions. He also stressed the importance of continued vigilance to prevent future outbreaks.
“Farmers and animal traders must adhere to guidelines provided by the ministry. Any trader intending to sell animals must obtain a document from the veterinary officer indicating the animal’s health status, as well as its origin and destination,” emphasized Mr. Ninsiima.
Some animal traders in Nyarushanje Subcounty, including Pauson Kajere and Twinamasiko Lawrence, expressed relief and gratitude for the decision. They noted that residents in their areas rely heavily on selling animals and their products, and the quarantine had plunged many into poverty.
“The lifting of the quarantine came at the right time because most of us had run out of survival options,” they said, adding that they were happy the restrictions were lifted, enabling them to earn a living again.
Juma Magambo, a butcher from Buyanja Town Council, also shared his happiness. He explained that he had faced significant challenges during the quarantine, including the high cost of sourcing animals for slaughter.
“I had to travel all the way to Kamwezi in Rukiga District to buy animals, which was very costly. Lifting the quarantine will now make my work much easier and less expensive,” he said.
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