President William Ruto of Kenya spoke up again about his government's livestock vaccination program. Some people have questioned how it will be different from past efforts.
Ruto said the big change is that the government will pay for all the vaccines this time. In the past, each farmer had to buy their vaccines. Having the government cover the cost ensures that all animals get the shot, so even farmers who are struggling with money can protect their herds.
The president made clear that the vaccines are a choice, not a requirement. Farmers who don't want to participate can opt out. He compared this program to how the government helps coffee and sugarcane farmers. The goal is to support everyone who raises livestock.
Ruto asked leaders to stop making the vaccine program political. He said it hurts the country when politicians play games with people's jobs and Kenya's economy.
The government also put aside 2 billion shillings to boost the leather industry. Factories are already working to make more leather goods. "This will help the livestock sector grow," Ruto explained.
One member of parliament urged farmers to get their animals vaccinated. He said the government is trying to increase the value of their products so they can be exported.
But not everyone is convinced the vaccines will work. Some livestock owners worry they might harm the animals instead of protecting them.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development wants to vaccinate 22 million cows and 50 million sheep and goats. Officials promise the locally made vaccines are completely safe. They hope the program will cover animals across the whole country.
Ruto said the big change is that the government will pay for all the vaccines this time. In the past, each farmer had to buy their vaccines. Having the government cover the cost ensures that all animals get the shot, so even farmers who are struggling with money can protect their herds.
The president made clear that the vaccines are a choice, not a requirement. Farmers who don't want to participate can opt out. He compared this program to how the government helps coffee and sugarcane farmers. The goal is to support everyone who raises livestock.
Ruto asked leaders to stop making the vaccine program political. He said it hurts the country when politicians play games with people's jobs and Kenya's economy.
The government also put aside 2 billion shillings to boost the leather industry. Factories are already working to make more leather goods. "This will help the livestock sector grow," Ruto explained.
One member of parliament urged farmers to get their animals vaccinated. He said the government is trying to increase the value of their products so they can be exported.
But not everyone is convinced the vaccines will work. Some livestock owners worry they might harm the animals instead of protecting them.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development wants to vaccinate 22 million cows and 50 million sheep and goats. Officials promise the locally made vaccines are completely safe. They hope the program will cover animals across the whole country.
