By Aggrey Twesigye
Authorities in Ntungamo District have suspended all livestock and animal product markets following an outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease in several areas.
The directive, issued by security and veterinary officials, is aimed at containing the highly contagious disease that threatens livestock and farmers’ livelihoods.
The Resident District Commissioner, Mariam Kagaiga Mugisha, who also heads the district disease surveillance committee, confirmed that a quarantine has been enforced. Movement of animals and related products—including milk, meat, and livestock such as cattle, goats, sheep, and pigs—has been banned within and outside the district. Neighboring Rukiga District has also been placed under similar restrictions.
Mugisha acknowledged the economic impact on farmers but emphasized the need to prevent further spread of the disease and improve discipline in livestock trade.
District Veterinary Officer, Dr. Yaake Basulirwa, said confirmed cases were detected in Ngoma Sub-county, noting that outbreaks are more common during the dry season.
As part of containment measures, slaughter slabs, butcheries, dairies, milk cooling facilities, and meat roasting centres have been closed. Hotels have also been barred from preparing or serving animal products until May 27, 2026.
Authorities have warned that anyone transporting livestock products must present a valid movement permit, especially for goods originating outside quarantine zones.
The restrictions come just eight months after livestock markets were reopened following earlier interventions by Parliament.
