President Ruto rebukes vaccine critics again, insists on benefits for farmers
Ruto explained that the campaign was critical for controlling livestock diseases and boosting the country's ability to export leather and other livestock products to international markets.
President William Ruto has intensified his defence of the national livestock vaccination campaign, dismissing opposition from critics who claim the programme is driven by ulterior motives.
Speaking on Tuesday at the Annual Kimalel Goat Auction in Baringo County, the President underscored the importance of the initiative in improving the health and productivity of Kenya's livestock.
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Drawing from his academic background in Botany and Zoology, Ruto explained that the campaign was critical for controlling livestock diseases and boosting the country's ability to export leather and other livestock products to international markets.
"We want to export our leather products to international markets. However, the high level of disease prevalence among our livestock is the greatest impediment. This is why the national vaccination campaign is vital," he stated.
We are supporting farmers in sustaining the progress achieved in agricultural productivity, which has increased their earnings and enhanced our food security.
— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) December 17, 2024
To ensure farmers fully benefit from international opportunities, we will implement a broad vaccination programme, using… pic.twitter.com/R95Z0NA6Nc
Since its unveiling on November 8, 2024, the vaccination drive has sparked controversy, with Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka suggesting that the campaign could be a covert effort by foreign organisations to introduce genetic modifications to reduce methane emissions from livestock. Ruto, however, dismissed these allegations as baseless and misguided.
"Some leaders are saying ridiculous things. Has anyone been unable to fart because they have been vaccinated? Please spare us your ignorance," he said.
The President further emphasised that the campaign is designed purely to benefit the livestock sector and improve the livelihoods of farmers.
"Those criticising this campaign want Kenyans to remain in poverty and lack. Having healthy livestock means more productive farms, better incomes for farmers, and a stronger economy," Ruto said, urging leaders to support the initiative rather than spreading fear and misinformation.
Earlier before, Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi also expressed his concern about the persistent criticism levelled against the vaccination drive.
"Vaccination did not start yesterday. If it is good for humans, it also applies to our animals. If it were not for the law, we would have already come to blows with the critics of this campaign to advance the greater good," said the fiery legislator.
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