Uganda-Egypt Partnership to Slash FMD Vaccine Costs

Livestock farmers in Uganda are poised for substantial savings as a new factory, a collaborative effort between the Ugandan and Egyptian governments, prepares to manufacture Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccines locally. The initiative, announced by the Minister for Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, is expected to drastically lower the current costs associated with vaccinating animals.

Currently, farmers pay approximately Shs8,000 for cow vaccinations and Shs4,000 for goats. Minister Tumwebaze stated that with the local production, these prices are projected to drop “substantially.” The partnership agreement for this crucial factory has already been finalized, signaling a significant step towards self-sufficiency in vaccine production.

The Minister’s announcement came in response to concerns raised by Hon. Richard Ongorok regarding the cost recovery scheme for the FMD vaccination program. Tumwebaze assured the public that the policy mandates online payments for vaccines, and any veterinary officers demanding cash payments are being investigated. He emphasized plans to increase public awareness campaigns in local languages to ensure all animal owners understand the acquisition process.

In a separate but related matter, Minister Tumwebaze also clarified the government’s new policy on agricultural seedlings. Free distribution of maize and coffee seedlings is being phased out, with farmers now encouraged to access funding for these inputs through the Parish Development Model (PDM). This shift aims to integrate seedling procurement into the broader economic development framework of the PDM.

Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja urged Members of Parliament to actively monitor the effectiveness and reach of various government-funded projects, including the PDM, Emyooga, and the Grow Project, ensuring that funds are utilized efficiently and reach the intended beneficiaries. She also highlighted the importance of educating the public on the revolving nature of these funds.

https://www.parliament.go.ug/index.php/news/4573/fmd-factory-cut-vaccine-prices-minister