President William Ruto has strongly criticized leaders who are opposing the government’s ambitious livestock vaccination plan, describing their resistance as irrational and unfounded. Speaking at the Pastoralist Leadership Summit in Wajir County on December 10, Ruto vowed to continue with the initiative, which aims to vaccinate 22 million cattle and 50 million goats and sheep across Kenya, despite facing intense opposition.
Ruto called those opposing the vaccination “mad, unreasonable, and possibly stupid,” emphasizing the importance of the program in ensuring disease-free livestock that can meet international market standards. He accused critics of having an “evil spirit” that undermines national progress.
The vaccination campaign, which is a key focus of Ruto’s administration, seeks to ensure that Kenyan livestock products meet the health requirements needed for international exports. The vaccines, developed locally, are expected to open up lucrative global markets for Kenyan pastoralists. Ruto stated that for too long, Kenya’s livestock products have failed to meet these standards, and the vaccination initiative will help control diseases while boosting the economy by creating new market opportunities.
Ruto’s comments were made in response to criticism from Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who has raised concerns about the safety of the vaccines. Kalonzo claimed that the vaccines, allegedly rejected in countries like the US, could genetically alter livestock and pose risks to both animals and humans. He called the program a “sinister foreign agenda” and urged caution in a statement on November 15.
Ruto dismissed Kalonzo’s claims as fearmongering, assuring the public that the vaccines are safe and made in Kenya. He stressed that the initiative is focused on securing livelihoods and advancing the interests of Kenyan farmers, not promoting foreign agendas.
The vaccination campaign, seen as a potential game-changer for the country’s pastoralists and livestock sector, has sparked a heated political debate. While the Kenya Kwanza administration pushes for its success, opposition leaders continue to question its safety and intentions. The nation now watches closely to see whether the plan will fulfill its promise or become another point of political contention.
By Newshb