Nairobi, Kenya- During the Pastoralist Leadership Summit in Wajir County on December 10, President William Ruto issued a harsh rebuke to critics of his government’s livestock vaccination program.
The initiative aims to vaccinate 22 million cattle and 50 million goats and sheep, aiming to enhance disease control and expand both domestic and international markets for Kenyan livestock products.
Ruto dismissed opposition to the program as “mad, unreasonable, and possibly stupid,” attributing the resistance to ignorance. “Anyone opposing vaccination is simply mad, unreasonable, and possibly stupid. The vaccination is necessary because we need disease-free livestock,” he said.
He also highlighted that the vaccines would be locally manufactured, ensuring Kenyan livestock products meet export standards.
However, Ruto’s remarks sparked heated discussions online, with many criticizing his choice of words and raising concerns about the program’s necessity and transparency.
One commentator, Gitau Warigi (@GitauWarigi), wrote: “That’s the whole problem with Ruto’s governance style. Kifua. Mpende msipende. Governance is about consensus. Not edicts. If I don’t want to vaccinate my cows, it’s my choice.”
Similarly, JACKSON TOCHI (@jacksontochi24) observed, “Before you declare everyone against you ‘stupid,’ maybe check if your own policies have a little more sense. Wisdom isn’t just about speaking; it’s about listening too.”
Skepticism over the vaccines’ safety and efficacy also dominated discussions.
Emmanuel Motelin (@EmmanuelMotelin) noted historical injustices regarding medical supplies in Africa, writing: “During the last pandemic, western nations prioritized themselves, leaving Africa behind. Now we’re expected to embrace this without question? What’s the agenda?”
Others, like Kairu (@CheJonnie), raised practical concerns, asking, “What diseases? I vaccinate my livestock yearly against lampiskin, foot and mouth, and ECF. What are we not being told?”
Additionally, critics questioned the mandatory nature of the programme.
David Ngula (@david_ngula) called for a more inclusive approach: “Protecting livestock health is important, but it must be balanced with the rights, traditions, and economic realities of farmers.”
In contrast, some supported vaccination but criticized the rollout and communication strategy. @Maina_GenZhumorously suggested testing vaccines on politicians first: “Vaccination should begin with those in Parliament and the Senate. If they survive, the vaccine is SAFE; if not, Kenya will be SAFE.”
Ruto’s remarks also drew backlash for perceived arrogance, with Roie (@Roienkatha) remarking, “You can take a villager from the village, but you can’t take the village from the villager.”
