Uganda-Egypt Partnership Bolsters Fight against Foot-and-Mouth Disease
By The Public Lens
Uganda has received a crucial boost in its battle against Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) with the arrival of 2.5 million vaccine doses from Egypt.
This latest shipment marks the third delivery from Egypt, following earlier consignments of 3 million doses in May and July this year.
Maj Gen David Mugisha, representing the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, received the vaccines, highlighting the significance of Egypt’s support.
Uganda’s livestock industry faces significant challenges due to the FMD outbreak, with 32 districts under quarantine, including Luwero, Gomba, Isingiro, Kazo, Kiruhura, and Sembabule.
To combat the outbreak, the Ministry of Agriculture has restricted livestock movement and implemented vaccination programs.
Key Statistics:
– 44 million doses of FMD vaccine required annually
– Bi-annual vaccination program costing $176 million annually
– 2.5 million doses received in latest shipment
The timely delivery follows discussions between Gen Kainerugaba and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi in Cairo, strengthening cooperation between the two nations.
Egypt’s support extends beyond vaccine donations, including equipment for the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) to enhance local vaccine production.
The collaboration underscores the importance of regional partnerships in combating transboundary animal diseases.
Egypt-Uganda Cooperation: A Model for Regional Collaboration
The successful partnership between Uganda and Egypt serves as a shining example of how regional cooperation can effectively address common challenges.
As Uganda continues to battle FMD, the support from Egypt demonstrates the power of diplomacy and collaboration in protecting livelihoods and promoting regional stability.
