More than 300 goats have died within just two weeks in Hoima district, leaving farmers in shock and distress. The outbreak, which began in villages such as Lyato, Kasenyi, and the Fofo landing site in Buseruka sub-county, is causing widespread concern due to its rapid spread and severe symptoms. Affected goats exhibit signs like diarrhea, sneezing, nasal discharge, labored breathing, and swollen eyes—often dying shortly after symptoms appear.
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Farmers have suffered heavy losses. In Kasenyi alone, Jackson Oforu lost 100 goats, while James Kiviri reported losing 30. Many of these farmers had invested in goat farming through the Parish Development Model (PDM) and now face serious financial setbacks. Others, including Apophius Nyakato and Keren Akambaho, each lost over 100 goats and are pleading for government assistance, stating that they can no longer afford vaccinations. Local leaders like LC3 chairperson Ali Tinkamanyire are also calling for urgent mass vaccination to prevent further losses.
Although district veterinary officer Dr. Patrick Ndorwa was initially unaware of the situation, he has pledged to investigate.
This alarming situation points to a wider issue threatening livestock in the region. Buseruka has experienced similar outbreaks before—notably in 2021, when goat plague (peste des petits ruminants) killed hundreds of goats. That crisis was only contained through swift, large-scale vaccination.
The current outbreak underscores the urgent need for early detection, rapid response, and coordinated intervention to safeguard the region’s livestock and protect the livelihoods of rural farmers.
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