The government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industries, and Fisheries (MAAIF), is considering lifting the ban on livestock movement and quarantine in the areas that were affected by the Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD).

The confirmation was done by Frank Tumwebaze, the Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industries, and Fisheries, on his social media handle X, saying that the decision to lift the ban will be informed by reports and recommendations from the respective district task forces, including the Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), District Veterinary Officers (DVOs), Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs), and Local Council V (LC5) chairpersons.

Tumwebaze added that the officials will be required to confirm that the necessary ring vaccinations have been completed and the disease is contained in the affected areas.

“Once the district task forces provide the necessary confirmation, the Commissioner at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries will proceed to lift the quarantine restrictions,” Tumwebaze said.

He noted that the policy reversal is aimed at allowing farmers to purchase vaccines directly, which will help them resume their commercial activities more quickly.

Tumwebaze emphasized the importance of decentralization, urging the elected leaders to follow up on the distribution of the vaccines through the DVOs and CAOs.

In response to the minister’s remarks, John Mugisha, one of the residents of Kazo, commended the government for the decision to lift the restrictions, stating that it is highly necessary as cattle are a significant source of income in the affected areas.

Mugisha acknowledged that the restrictions were not intentional but were based on a thorough evaluation, and he expressed hope for the positive outcome.

Tumwebaze pledged the ministry’s commitment to ensuring that farmers resume their full commercial activities as soon as possible, while emphasizing the need for a transparent and scientific approach to the decision-making process.

Following an outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) in Kabowa, Rubaga Division, on February 28, 2024, the ministry imposed quarantine restrictions in Kampala. The disease then spread to over 30 districts nationwide, including Ssembabule, Luwero, Mubende, Gomba, Isingiro, Kazo, Kiruhura, Kyotera, Lwengo, Fort Portal, Rakai, Ngora, Kibuku, Bukedea, Butaleja, and Mbarara.