Uganda to lower Foot-and-Mouth Disease vaccine costs via new factory

Uganda is implementing new measures to address misconduct and high costs within its Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccination programme. Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze informed Parliament that investigations are underway regarding reports of veterinary officers illegally demanding cash payments from farmers instead of using the approved online payment platforms.

To reduce the financial burden on livestock keepers, a new vaccine manufacturing factory is being established through a partnership between the governments of Uganda and Egypt. Minister Tumwebaze stated that once operational, the local production is expected to substantially lower the current costs, which are presently Shs8,000 for cattle and Shs4,000 for goats and sheep.

The government plans to intensify public awareness campaigns in local languages to ensure farmers understand the official payment policies and the vaccination requirements for their animals.