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The Kenyan government has sounded an alarm to farmers, urging them to participate in the ongoing livestock vaccination campaign. 

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Dr. Andrew Karanja emphasized the significant risks that could arise if livestock owners fail to comply with the vaccination directives. 

The government is targeting to vaccinate 22 million cattle and 50 million sheep and goats, as part of a concerted effort to combat diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR).

During a vaccination drive event on December 13, 2024, CS Karanja outlined four major risks that the country could face if farmers neglect the vaccination program. 

First, farmers risk losing their livestock due to diseases that could spread rapidly without vaccination. 

Such outbreaks could lead to fatalities among animals, ultimately affecting the meat and dairy supply chain.

Second, farmers who fail to vaccinate their animals may suffer a loss of income, as sick animals are unlikely to produce milk, meat, or other valuable byproducts. 

This could have a devastating financial impact on families who depend on livestock for their livelihood.

Third, food shortages could occur as a result of reduced livestock productivity. 

With less available meat, milk, and other animal products, the overall food supply could dwindle, leading to higher prices for these essentials and creating an economic strain on the population.

Finally, the government warns that non-compliance with vaccination standards could lead to a decline in international trade. 

As global food safety standards tighten, nations that fail to meet these regulations risk losing access to valuable export markets for their agricultural products. 

Vaccination ensures that Kenya remains a reliable supplier of safe livestock products on the international stage.

The vaccination initiative is part of a broader strategy by the government to boost livestock productivity. 

This includes improving forage and feed production, expanding livestock insurance, and enhancing breeding programs to ensure sustainable farming practices.

Despite the government's assurance that the vaccination drive is vital for the country's agricultural future, the campaign has been met with resistance from some political leaders and stakeholders. 

Critics, including Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, have raised concerns, with some alleging that the vaccination program might be a guise for introducing genetically modified livestock.