Makueni Farmers to benefit from new livestock vaccine partnership with KEVEVAPI

The Makueni County government has entered into a strategic partnership with the Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute (KEVEVAPI), aimed at strengthening livestock health and driving economic growth.

Under the agreement, Makueni County will work with KEVEVAPI to increase uptake and timely delivery of veterinary vaccines. Currently, vaccine uptake in the region stands at just 30 per cent — the partnership aims to raise that to 70 per cent.

The initiative targets a range of devastating livestock diseases including Foot and Mouth Disease, Lumpy Skin Disease, Caprine Pleuropneumonia, Rabies, Brucellosis and Rift Valley Fever — all major threats to the county’s livestock sector.

According to the county’s Deputy Governor, Lucy Mulili, the deal is “a major boost” to the county’s livestock industry, which contributes about 20 per cent to Makueni’s GDP and supports approximately 65 per cent of households.

Agriculture CECM Elizabeth Muli reinforced the county’s full backing of the initiative, pledging sustained support to ensure long-term success.

The expected outcomes of the partnership are significant. By improving vaccine availability, distribution and utilisation, the programme aims to reduce disease outbreaks, minimise livestock losses, enhance productivity and therefore improve incomes for many of the county’s farming families.

With more animals healthy, there is also potential for growth in related markets—meat, dairy and other livestock-derived products—which can further enhance economic resilience and livelihoods.

For Makueni County, where livestock farming plays a key role in rural livelihoods and overall economic performance, this collaboration marks a strategic step.

It reflects the recognition that human wellbeing, economic development and animal health are closely intertwined. In practical terms, the success of this project will depend on effective implementation: ensuring enough vaccines are produced, delivered on time, accepted and administered, and that farmers are engaged and supported.

The county’s pact with KEVEVAPI sets a clear path toward healthier herds, stronger rural incomes and a more robust livestock sector in Makueni. The 70 per cent vaccine-uptake target is ambitious but, if achieved, could be transformational.