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{
"id": 514769,
"url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/514769/?format=api",
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"content": "Livestock Market was closed as a result of foot and mouth disease type “O” outbreak which was reported in the whole of West Pokot County, except West Pokot Central, where markets were not closed. About 300,000 cattle, 350,000 goats and 280,000 sheep were under threat. The disease spread from Nangei Ward, where the diseased was first detected, Torio Ward, Ortum, Sfina and other wards. Major markets which were closed include Chepareria, Ortum, Chekpkobei, Kishaunet, Cheptwira, Rorwa, Konyau, Komoletiang, Kitelakapil, Kacheliba and Serewa. This adversely affected marketing and reduced the income of the community members who depend on cattle. The second question was how long the ban will last. A ring vaccination covering 66,291 head of cattle has been carried out to limit the spread of the disease. The ban could, probably, be lifted by 18th of March, 2015 barring any further spread of the disease. The third question was why this ban covers goats, sheep and chicken. Foot and mouth disease affects goats, sheep and cattle. The quarantine applies to cattle. However, the marketing of chicken has not been affected by the quarantine. Therefore, their marketing has not been prohibited. They are being sold freely in the country. The fourth question was whether there are plans by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries together with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology to intervene and provide school fees for the students who are affected. In ordinary times, the West Pokot Constituencies Development Fund (CDF) and County Bursary Committees offer school fees assistance to deserving cases. The children affected are such deserving cases. As a result of that disease, there will be more such cases expected. It is, therefore, expected that the respective committees will prioritize the most deserving cases for bursaries, including those affected by the ban. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Sir."
}