“Anybody opposing vaccination of cattle is stupid” – Ruto
President William Ruto remains steadfast in his commitment to vaccinate millions of livestock across Kenya, brushing aside opposition from certain leaders.
During the fourth Pastoralist Leadership Summit held in Wajir on December 10, 2024, Ruto defended the vaccination program, emphasizing its benefits to pastoralists while criticizing detractors as misguided.
“Opposing vaccination is irrational, unreasonable, and outright foolish,” Ruto declared. “This initiative is essential for achieving disease-free livestock. Unfortunately, Kenya harbors an evil spirit in the form of leaders who oppose progress at every turn.”
Boosting International Trade Standards
Ruto highlighted that the vaccination drive aims to elevate Kenyan livestock products to international standards, enabling greater export opportunities. He noted that the substandard quality of these products has long hindered market access.
“We must take control of disease prevention to unlock both domestic and international markets for our livestock products,” Ruto urged, adding that the vaccines would be locally manufactured to support the economy.
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Despite the president’s assurances, some leaders have advised Kenyans against participating in the vaccination initiative, which targets 22 million cattle and 50 million goats and sheep, citing concerns about potential genetic alterations in local breeds.
Kalonzo Criticizes Vaccination Plan
Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka criticized the vaccination program in a statement released on November 15, 2024. He accused the initiative of serving foreign interests rather than the needs of Kenyans.
“The masterminds of this program do not implement similar vaccinations in their own countries, where livestock populations are far greater contributors to climate change,” Kalonzo stated. “These vaccines, developed abroad and rejected globally, should raise alarm among Kenyans.”
He urged pastoralists to resist the program, framing it as a threat to their livelihoods. “Do not allow anyone near your livestock under the guise of vaccination,” he warned.
Foreign Influence Claims
Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba also opposed the plan, alleging it was a foreign agenda masked as a climate change solution.
“This is not a Kenyan idea; it is being imposed on us with specific goals in mind,” Wamuchomba argued. “The president’s remarks indicate that this is part of a global climate change strategy aimed at reducing methane emissions.”
“Anybody opposing vaccination of cattle is stupid” – Ruto
