A collective responsibility to end FMD spread
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 | 30 Views |
As cases continue to threaten herds and rural livelihoods, one simple but critical action can make a powerful difference: strictly adhering to FMD regulations, including refraining from slaughtering cloven-hoofed animals.
Cloven-hoofed animals, such as cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs, are highly susceptible to FMD. Slaughter, especially during outbreaks or restricted periods, significantly increases the risk of spreading the virus through contaminated meat, equipment, clothing, vehicles, and waste. What may seem like an isolated act can trigger widespread consequences for farmers, markets, food security, and national trade.
Acting Agriculture Minister, Edwin Dikoloti, is right in saying opening an export-ready facility whilst Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is still spreading would risk getting the whole country blacklisted before a single carcass leaves the door.A ban like that would break the already stressed nation. So, the postponement, painful as it is, is the right thing to do. The local economy is being squeezed from both ends. FMD has already slammed the door...