Drought Devastates Kasese: Nearly 1,000 Cattle Perish in a Month

Nyakatonzi Sub-county in Kasese District is facing a severe livestock crisis, with almost 1,000 cattle succumbing to drought-related causes over the last month. The prolonged dry spell has depleted water sources and grazing lands, leaving farmers struggling to keep their animals alive.

Cattle keepers attribute the high mortality rate primarily to hunger and dehydration. The weakest animals are reportedly the first to collapse as the scarcity of food and water intensifies. “The cattle are dying every day because there is no enough food and water. The weak ones are the first to collapse,” shared Ham Natuhwera, a local cattle keeper.

This dire situation has also crippled milk production, a crucial income source for many households. Daily milk output has plummeted from an average of 40,000 litres to less than 1,000 litres. Kenneth Muyambi, chairperson of the Nyakatonzi Cattle Keepers Cooperative, lamented the drastic decline, highlighting the severe economic impact on the community.

Furthermore, the lack of pasture has weakened the cattle, significantly devaluing them. Animals that once fetched between Shs2 million and Shs3 million are now being sold for as little as Shs150,000, often to avoid complete loss. This forces farmers to sell at a fraction of the normal price, exacerbating their financial losses.

In response, farmers are appealing for urgent assistance with water and fodder. The Deputy Resident District Commissioner for Bukonzo, Lt Maate Magwara, advised patience and suggested reducing the number of livestock to ease pressure on available resources. He also mentioned that the government is exploring long-term solutions, including the construction of valley dams to mitigate future droughts.

Farmers are hopeful that the onset of rains will bring relief, but immediate intervention is deemed essential to prevent further devastation to their herds and livelihoods. This report is based on information from Nile Post.