Kenya Veterinary Association Urges Faster Action Ahead of El Niño

The Kenya Veterinary Association has called for faster preparations to protect livestock from the expected effects of El Niño conditions through the rest of 2026 and into early 2027.

Source: Tv47 Digital 

KVA President, Dr. Kelvin Osore, said heavy rains and flooding could increase disease outbreaks, animal injuries and deaths, damage livestock facilities and disrupt supply chains.

The association is calling for emergency vaccination campaigns, protection of water infrastructure, destocking programmes and the deployment of mobile veterinary teams to high-risk pastoral areas.

It also wants vaccines, veterinary medicines, laboratory supplies, feed and fodder to be moved to vulnerable areas before heavy rains intensify.

The KVA said Kenya should apply lessons from the 2023–2024 El Niño, which caused flooding, displacement, infrastructure damage, livestock losses and contamination of water sources.

Meanwhile, the Directorate of Veterinary Services is strengthening disease surveillance, parasite control, laboratory capacity and the supply of vaccines and emergency veterinary materials.

The KVA stressed that adequate funding and coordination will be needed to implement the measures on time. It also advised livestock owners to consult veterinarians, protect feed and water supplies, identify safe areas for animals and report unusual illnesses or deaths promptly.