President William Ruto has dismissed criticism from politicians opposing his livestock vaccination plan, labelling them as leaders engaging in “cheap talk” without offering viable alternatives.
Speaking at the annual Kimalel Goat Auction in Baringo County, Ruto emphasized that the vaccination initiative aims to enhance farmers’ compliance with international standards for meat and leather exports.
He urged critics to refrain from discussing topics they do not understand, asserting that their propaganda undermines Kenya’s access to international markets. “Last year, we exported dairy products worth Ksh. 4.9 billion, which increased to Ksh. 7.4 billion. We want to export our meat and leather, but disease prevalence is an impediment,” he stated.
The President questioned the logic behind opposing vaccinations for animals when humans routinely receive vaccinations. “If it’s safe for people, why is it dangerous for animals?” he asked, criticizing the misinformation surrounding the program.
Ruto’s remarks come as he faces ongoing scrutiny from some leaders who allege that the vaccination plan serves a hidden agenda. Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka recently expressed concerns that the initiative is part of a foreign agenda that threatens pastoralist communities.
As the nationwide vaccination program prepares to roll out in the coming months, Ruto remains committed to disease control as essential for boosting Kenya’s agricultural exports.
