Africa-Press – South-Sudan. The Jonglei State government has rolled out a two-week livestock vaccination campaign aimed at protecting 5,000 cattle, sheep, and goats against deadly diseases.
Launched on Friday in Bor, the initiative targets cattle with vaccines for East Coast Fever and Foot and Mouth Disease, while sheep and goats will be immunized against Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR).
Officials say the exercise is part of wider efforts to strengthen animal health, boost food security, and improve livelihoods across the state.
Acting Governor John Chuol presided over the launch, joined by senior officials from the Ministry of Livestock, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the Indian Ambassador to South Sudan, and the Indian Battalion serving under UNMISS.
Chuol urged herders to embrace agricultural development as a pathway to better living standards. He commended the Indian Government, UNMISS, and the Indian Battalion for their continued support, and credited Governor Dr. Riek Gai Kok for forging strategic partnerships with both local and international actors.
“As a government, we are committed to raising the livestock sector’s contribution to GDP from 12% to 20%. Today’s launch is a bold step toward that goal,” he said.
State Secretary General Kur Ayuen Kou emphasized the urgency of tackling East Coast Fever, locally called Jok Juba, describing the vaccination as “timely and lifesaving.”
“This campaign comes at the right time. Protecting our animals means protecting the livelihoods of our people,” Kou noted.
The Indian Ambassador underlined that the vaccination is voluntary but will be repeated to ensure long-term impact. He said the initiative followed a request made months earlier by Governor Kok and stands as a testament to strong cooperation between Jonglei and its partners.
UNMISS Head of Office, Geetha Pious, also reaffirmed the mission’s support for community resilience and peacebuilding.
“Healthy animals mean stronger communities. We are proud to stand with Jonglei in this effort to save lives and build peace,” she said.
The launch brought together veterinary officials, livestock farmers, traders, and community leaders, signalling a collective commitment to safeguarding the state’s livestock sector.
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