The Minister for Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs, Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, says they’ve been told to hold off on stopping livestock movement in Kampala until the government checks if it’s really needed to stop foot and mouth disease from spreading.
Earlier, the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF) issued a statement banning the sell of meat due to an outbreak of foot and mouth disease in the Kabowa, Rubaga Division, Kampala city on February 28, 2024. This meant closing livestock markets, slaughterhouses, and other places in the district.
But now, Minister Kabanda says the ban isn’t happening anymore. She based this on a directive issued by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja who stepped in and asked the Agriculture Ministry to cancel the ban while they look into the situation more.
“When we saw the later, my deputy and I went to the Prime Minister for guidance. She made a phone call to the author of the document and directed her to immediately withdraw until further notice “Kabanda said
Minister Kabanda says meat sellers and operators can now proceed to do their work without restrictions. However, meat sellers are told to check animals properly before selling them. Kabanda says people can still eat meat.