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Kenya recently launched an ambitious livestock vaccination campaign spearheaded by President William Ruto. 

The initiative targets 22 million cattle and 50 million sheep and goats, aiming to combat diseases like foot-and-mouth disease. 

Farmers will pay KSh 100 per animal, which the government believes will help revitalize livestock farming.

While the campaign seems practical, it has sparked controversy among Kenyans. 

A section of the public has raised concerns, with some linking the initiative to American billionaire Bill Gates. 

The Microsoft co-founder has been actively funding research to reduce methane emissions from livestock, claiming that cow burps and farts contribute significantly to global greenhouse gases.

Bill Gates has invested millions in projects designed to curb methane emissions from cattle. 

These include innovations like feed additives and vaccines that eliminate bacteria responsible for methane production in cows. 

In Europe, products like Bovaer are already being tested, and some milk consumers have protested against these additives. 

Gates' involvement in such projects has fueled speculation among Kenyans that he may be connected to Ruto’s campaign.

Livestock Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke has strongly denied these claims, calling them baseless propaganda. 

According to Mueke, the vaccines used in the Kenyan program are produced locally by the Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute (KEVEVAPI). 

He emphasized that farmers will not be forced to vaccinate their animals, hoping this assurance will calm public fears.

The Kenya Veterinary Association (KVA) has called for public awareness to clear the air around the campaign. 

Dr. Kelvin Osore, KVA's National Chairman, explained that methane-reducing vaccines are still in the research phase and are unlikely to be rolled out in Kenya anytime soon. 

He suggested that the mistrust between the public and the government is a significant barrier to the success of this program.

KVA also recommended a targeted approach to livestock vaccination. 

Instead of a blanket program, the government could focus on addressing diseases specific to different regions.

Although the campaign aims to improve livestock health, the controversy reveals the deep mistrust between Kenyans and government initiatives.