President William Ruto has hit back at critics questioning his nationwide livestock vaccination initiative, asserting his expertise and vision for Kenya’s agricultural sector.
Speaking in Garissa on Thursday, January 6, Ruto emphasized his academic credentials, noting that he had attained the highest level of education. He questioned why individuals with lesser qualifications were challenging his decision to implement the vaccination program.
“If we sell our meat internationally, is there a problem? If we sell our milk abroad, is there a problem? I see that there are people who are complaining, and I don’t know where they learned. Don’t I have a PhD? I know what is happening in Kenya. Now those with little education are trying to teach me. What are you teaching me?” Ruto stated.
The Vision Behind the Vaccination Plan
Ruto explained that the vaccination campaign aims to boost Kenya’s livestock sector by meeting international health standards, thereby increasing meat exports. He compared the initiative to Kenya’s successful coffee and tea exports, wondering why there was resistance to a similar approach for the meat industry.
The nationwide vaccination rollout has already begun in various regions, including Wajir, where the president encouraged livestock keepers to allow their animals to be immunized.
Criticism and Concerns Over the Initiative
Despite the government’s assurances, opposition figures and some stakeholders have raised concerns about the plan. Critics argue that the government is imposing the vaccination program without adequate public consultation.
Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka has been among the most vocal opponents, urging the government to be transparent about potential external influences behind the program. He expressed fears that international organizations might be using the initiative to push genetically modified organisms (GMO) into Kenya’s livestock industry.
“We have been reliably informed by scientific authorities that these vaccines will alter the genetic structure of our animals. Reproduction of new life will be plagued by issues,” Kalonzo claimed during a press conference in November 2024.
Looking Ahead
As the vaccination rollout continues, the government faces mounting pressure to address the concerns raised by critics. Transparency in the implementation of the initiative will be crucial in winning public trust and ensuring the success of the program, particularly in achieving its goal of expanding Kenya’s footprint in the global meat market.
