Kapelebyong district has initiated a comprehensive vaccination program for poultry, targeting key diseases that undermine the stability of the poultry sector.
The program which was launched at Kapelebyong Town Council offices on Tuesday, focuses on combatting Newcastle disease, Gumboro disease (infectious bursal disease), and infectious bronchitis, which are known to be the primary threats to poultry health.
Mr. Raymond Ekita, the acting district veterinary officer, says the program seeks to provide protection for local poultry populations against these common but devastating diseases.
To support this crucial endeavor, the district allocated a budget of 20 million Ugandan Shillings. The vaccine consists of 450,000 doses of Newcastle/infectious bronchitis, 450,000 doses of Newcastle lasota and 450,000 doses of infectious basal disease.
Mr. Ekita emphasized the importance of vaccination in breaking the cycle of poverty that many families face: “Many of our households still wail in poverty because little attention is put on vaccinating poultry, yet poultry contributes significantly to the economic well-being of every household.”
In an effort to streamline the vaccination process and reduce costs, the district has trained Local Council One (LC1) chairpersons to administer vaccinations, addressing the challenge posed by a limited number of veterinary staff in the area.
Representing the district chairperson, Ms. Atia Miriam, the vice district chairperson, called upon the community to embrace the vaccination initiative wholeheartedly.
“We approved this money to benefit you farmers. Please embrace this program and accord the support required,” she urged, reinforcing the importance of community participation in the success of the campaign.
Shaineh Nelson, the deputy Chief Administrative Officer of Kapelebyong, reiterated this connection, challenging LC1 chairpersons to mobilize farmers actively and encourage widespread participation in the vaccination program.
“The program is in line with President Museveni’s call for prosperity for all,” Nelson said. “It is vital that all stakeholders work together to make this initiative a success.”
In support of the program, Mr. Emmy Ojirot, the deputy resident district commissioner, commended the production department staff for their initiative.
He hailed it as a pivotal step towards improving poultry health in the district. “I encourage LC1 leaders to ensure that communities vaccinate their birds routinely to avoid great losses to diseases which are easily avoidable,” Ojirot advised.

Emmanuel Opio
Communication Officer
Kapelebyong district