By Adan Mohamed - Reporter
Kenya, 5 June 2026 - Mandera county department of Veterinary Services, in collaboration with local NGOs have officially launched a 15-day integrated livestock health campaign targeting Mandera East, Mandera North, and Banisa/Kiliwehiri sub-counties.
The large-scale intervention is aimed at strengthening animal health, improving productivity, and protecting the livelihoods of pastoral communities who heavily depend on livestock as their main source of income and food security.
The exercise campaign will include vaccination of 112,500 sheep and goats against Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), a highly contagious viral disease that continues to threaten small ruminant populations in arid and semi-arid regions.
The campaign will also include deworming of 120,000 livestock to reduce internal parasite burdens that weaken animals and reduce productivity.
Spraying of approximately 5,000 camels to control tick infestations and related vector-borne diseases.
Provision of targeted treatment for various bacterial and parasitic infections affecting livestock across the targeted sub-counties.
In addition to veterinary interventions, the programme will include community awareness sessions focusing on zoonotic diseases those that can be transmitted from animals to humans alongside education on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and responsible use of veterinary drugs.
Farmers will also be trained on improved husbandry practices, disease prevention, and early reporting mechanisms.
County officials noted that the campaign is part of a broader effort to build resilience in pastoral systems, especially in areas frequently affected by drought, livestock diseases, and cross-border animal movement.
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While Speaking during the launch, Mr Barre Shabure, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, emphasised the importance of the initiative in safeguarding livelihoods.
He said the program is not only a veterinary intervention but also a long-term investment in food security and economic stability for pastoral households.
“This intervention is designed to enhance resilience and protect the livelihoods of our pastoral communities. We urge all livestock keepers to present their animals in large numbers so that they can fully benefit from this exercise,” Mr. Shabure stated.
Other officials further encouraged community participation, noting that successful disease prevention at herd level significantly reduces losses, improves market value of livestock, and strengthens household resilience in the face of climate and economic shocks.
The campaign comes after a long, prolonged drought, which was later followed by beneficial rainfall. This shift in weather has created new risks for livestock health, making the timing of the campaign even more critical for pastoral communities.