Safeguarding Livelihoods Through Stronger Herd Health
RACIDA, in collaboration with the Department of Veterinary Services of Mandera County, has launched a large-scale, 12-day mass livestock vaccination campaign covering all eight sub-counties of Mandera. The campaign aims to protect pastoralist communities from the devastating effects of livestock diseases by vaccinating approximately 260,000 goats and sheep.
This critical initiative is being implemented with support from the EU-funded BORESHA-NABAD program, the IrishAid-funded HANAANO program (implemented in partnership with Concern Worldwide), and the USAID-funded Integrated Recovery and Resilience (IRR) project. Their combined support reflects a strong commitment to improving the resilience and livelihoods of pastoralist communities in Northern Kenya.
The campaign focuses on vaccinating livestock against two major transboundary animal diseases: Contagious Caprine Pleuropneumonia (CCPP) and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR). In addition to these vaccinations, deworming treatments are being administered to improve overall herd health. Healthy livestock are central to life in Mandera, where most households rely on pastoralism as their primary source of income, nutrition, and food security. By reducing the risk of disease outbreaks, the campaign is expected to boost milk and meat production, stabilize household incomes, and enhance long-term food security.
A key strength of the campaign lies in the involvement of Community Disease Reporters (CDRs)—locally trained individuals who are helping mobilize communities, identify disease outbreaks, and support veterinary teams throughout the campaign. Their close ties with communities ensure that even remote areas are reached, while also reinforcing local disease surveillance systems. Through this approach, the campaign not only delivers critical veterinary services but also builds local capacity and empowers communities with knowledge on livestock care and disease prevention.
This vaccination campaign is part of RACIDA’s broader strategy to build resilience and promote sustainable development in the arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) of Kenya. By strengthening animal health systems and ensuring pastoralist communities are better equipped to protect their livelihoods, we are investing in long-term solutions that can withstand the growing challenges posed by climate change and recurring droughts.
RACIDA extends its sincere appreciation to our implementing partners, county officials, veterinary teams, community members, and donors who continue to work with us in supporting the wellbeing of pastoralist families across Mandera.
