Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) containment efforts in Ntungamo District have registered significant progress, prompting veterinary authorities to intensify interventions aimed at completely suppressing the outbreak.
Despite the encouraging developments, the district quarantine has been extended by two weeks beyond the planned May 27, 2026 lifting date to allow a joint task force from Ntungamo and Rukiga districts to further assess the situation on the ground.
The decision was reached during a stakeholders' meeting held on May 29, 2026, where veterinary officials reviewed field reports and evaluated the effectiveness of ongoing control measures.
Ntungamo District Veterinary Officer Dr. Yake Basulira said the district has witnessed gradual improvement in the disease situation, largely due to coordinated efforts by multiple stakeholders.
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"From the basis of the updates from the field, we realised the situation is gradually improving with the involvement of multi-stakeholders," Dr. Basulira said.
However, authorities resolved to maintain the quarantine for an additional two weeks to monitor progress and determine the next course of action.
"There is an extension of two weeks to evaluate the positive progress on ground and if it continues another dimension will be taken," he said.
During the extension period, veterinary authorities will intensify sensitisation campaigns and conduct mass vaccination exercises targeting livestock farmers in the most affected areas, including Ruhaama, Kafunjo-Mirama, Kakukuru, Rwenanura, Nyarutuntu, Rwentobo and Rwahi.
"During these two weeks it was proposed that there be massive sensitization and awareness of all stakeholders. We shall also do massive vaccination among Ruhaama, Kafunjo Mirama, Kakukuru, Rwenanura, Nyarutuntu, Rwentobo, Rwahi, among others," Dr. Basulira said.
Authorities also plan to map recently healed animals and compile progress reports to guide future interventions. Officials say the exercise will provide a clearer understanding of disease transmission patterns and recovery trends across the district.
Meanwhile, veterinary officials revealed that areas which have not registered any FMD cases may be allowed to resume normal livestock-related activities, although specific guidance will be issued after further assessment.
The extension comes amid concerns from some livestock farmers who say the cost of vaccination remains high. However, veterinary authorities have cautioned farmers against delaying vaccination, warning that losses resulting from an outbreak far outweigh the cost of preventive measures.
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For more than a month, Ntungamo District has been under quarantine, with authorities halting the movement and trade of animals susceptible to Foot and Mouth Disease, as well as related animal products, in an effort to contain the outbreak and prevent its spread to neighbouring districts.
