KAHAMA District Commissioner, Mr Annamringi Macha has banned pig business citing recent outbreak of ‘African Swine Fever,’ and allegedly killing over 500 pigs in the area.

African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious and deadly viral disease affecting both domestic and wild pigs of all ages. It is not a threat to human health and cannot be transmitted from pigs to humans.

Speaking to reporters yesterday, the DC said the fever signs were detected last month and seemed to continue spreading in various parts of the district.

“I have decided to protect pork consumers and not infected pigs. Pork sales must stop until the government declares otherwise, especially after being satisfied the fever is completely over,” he said.

According to him, the disease erupted in the area in 2007 and the government controlled it, adding this time they are working to identify the actual source(s) and its scientific prevention.

“I have also banned pigs’ transportation from one place to another. Whoever who is found ignoring the directive will face stern legal measures. We are tasked to protect both people and livestock,” he added.

On his part, the District’s Veterinary head, Mr Damian Kilyenyi confirmed the pigs’ deaths, saying the pork ban will only be uplifted once the government gets satisfied that the disease is controlled.

However, the ban was to protect the public from its infection, adding that the area has a big population of pork eaters.

One of the pig’s keepers in Mhongolo Ward, Mr Kishiwa Amos said they were surprised by the sudden death of their animals.

“We urged the government to quickly find a lasting solution, because many of us depended on the business to cater for our families,” he said.