Disease outbreak claims 1,000 animals in Baringo

By Robert Kiplagat

Baringo, Kenya: Livestock farmers in Baringo are counting losses after more than 1,000 goats and sheep died following a disease outbreak.

Pastoralists in the area have been left on their own as the Government finds it challenging to curb the spread of the disease owing to their nomadic way of life. 

Veterinary officials in the area led by District Veterinary officer Mr Micah Kabon, said they have carried tests on the affected goats and discovered the disease was Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) and advised for vaccination.

“It’s true, many farmers lost their goats and sheep to the disease, which is PPR, and we have started a vaccination program in the affected areas. We urge all farmers to take their animals for vaccination to curb the spread of the disease,” said Kabon.

The disease, has so far affected areas such as Bartum, Sibilo, Barwesssa and Bartabwa locations in Baringo North District.

The disease has also killed more than 2,000 goats in Marigat District early this year raising concern over the spread of the disease in pastoral areas of the county.

Farmers who spoke to The Standard said the disease broke out three weeks ago and has left a trail of deaths as it kills within a short period of time.

“This disease started in April this year, where some farmers noticed similar symptoms such as diarrhea, coughing and sudden death of their goats and since then, many goats have died from the disease,” said John Kiturgo.

This is the second time pastoral communities in the area are incurring losses due to livestock diseases. Last year, two livestock markets were closed in the area following lumpy skin disease outbreak.

The affected villages include Kasiela, Arabal, Chebinyiny, Nyimbei, and Kapkechir where farmers have reported losses after the outbreak of the disease one month ago.

Baringo County Governor Benjamin Cheboi, when he recently met farmers, said livestock diseases was a major challenge to farming adding that his Government would address the issue.