National livestock jab drive starts in Ngorongoro

NGORONGORO: THE government has launched a national livestock vaccination programme in Ngorongoro, Arusha Region, a key step in its five-year strategy to safeguard animal health across the country.

The initiative, led by Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Dr Ashatu Kijaji, at Mokilal Village, marks a significant push to protect the nation’s valuable livestock.

Speaking recently during the launch in Ngorongoro District, Dr Kijaji said the programme is part of the 2025–2030 National Livestock Vaccination Plan, which was inaugurated by President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan in Bariadi, Simiyu Region last month.

She noted that the government has allocated 216bn/- for the implementation of the plan, with over 62bn/- already disbursed for the current financial year.

To ease the burden on farmers, Dr Kijaji announced a significant subsidy on vaccination costs. She said that under the new arrangement, farmers will now pay only 500/- per cow, down from 1,000/- and 300/- for each goat or sheep, reduced from 500/-.

Director of Livestock Services at the Ministry, Mr Benezeth Lutege, outlined several goals of the vaccination campaign, including boosting the value of Tanzanian livestock in international markets.

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He added that the initiative will also help in tracking livestock and their owners, thereby improving grazing management and enabling livestock keepers to access loans, thanks to an identification system that uses barcoded tags.

Arusha Regional Commissioner, Mr Kenani Kihongosi, urged residents of Ngorongoro and the wider Arusha Region to embrace the vaccination programme to enhance livestock quality.

He also emphasised the importance of peace and order in addressing challenges through appropriate channels.

Ngorongoro Member of Parliament, Mr Emmanuel Shangai, expressed gratitude to the government for responding to the concerns of livestock keepers by providing accessible vaccinations.

He called on all citizens to participate in the campaign to eradicate livestock diseases and improve both their health and market value.