Authorities in Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality express concern over the economic impact of a quarantine imposed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry in response to the outbreak of foot and mouth disease. The quarantine, announced on February 15, 2024, restricts the movement of livestock and their products, posing challenges for local revenue collection.
Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality Mayor, Richard Byaruhanga, highlights the potential adverse effects of the quarantine on the municipality’s economy, particularly on revenue streams such as slaughter fees. Key areas generating local revenue, including Kabagarame pork market and municipal abattoirs in Nyakabirizi and Ishaka, have been affected by the restrictions.
Robert Atuhairwe, the Bushenyi District Resident District Commissioner (RDC), warns of consequences for those violating quarantine guidelines, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. The outbreak has led to quarantines being imposed in nearly 40 districts across the country.
Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze informed Parliament of the government’s efforts to address the outbreak, including seeking support for a supplementary budget to procure additional doses of vaccines. The aim is to cover all affected and high-risk districts, indicating the severity of the situation and the need for urgent intervention.
