NAIROBI, Kenya- President William Ruto has urged livestock farmers in Kenya to support the upcoming vaccination drive for their animals, emphasizing its potential to improve yields and elevate meat export standards.
Speaking in Kilgoris during a meeting with locals and grassroots leaders from Maasai counties, the President reassured farmers that participation in the program would remain voluntary.
In his address, President Ruto highlighted the importance of livestock vaccination as a critical step toward enhancing the quality of Kenya’s meat exports.
He praised Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu for spearheading a collaboration between the county and the national government to establish a meat processing plant in Narok.
“Hapa Narok, gavana wenu ametafuta marafiki wanaleta pesa… na pia sisi, national government tunaleta pesa ili muwe na the biggest meat processing plant hapa Narok ya kuexport nyama yenu… mnataka kuexport nyama mgonjwa?” Ruto said.
This plant, he noted, will position Kenya competitively in international meat markets, ensuring that local farmers reap the benefits of high-quality livestock products.
However, he emphasized that the decision to vaccinate would be optional, adding, “Itakuwa optional. Ukitaka, sawa. Kama hutaki, shauri yako.”
The meeting also saw leaders accompanying President Ruto weighing in on national political matters. Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and Minority Leader Junet Mohamed criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for his recent remarks targeting his former allies.
“Wale watu walichukuwa mbuzi ya Uhuru Kenyatta ndio walipanga bunge ivamiwe na State House ivamiwe,” Ichung’wah stated, alluding to past political intrigues.
Junet chimed in, questioning Gachagua’s credibility, adding, “Sasa unaenda huko nje kubwekbweka… unataja Raila kama nani?”
On a local note, Kilgoris residents called on the President to address the deteriorating state of roads in the area, highlighting infrastructure as a pressing concern for the community.
