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The Ugandan Cabinet has directed immediate action following an anthrax outbreak in Kanungu District, Western Uganda, which has claimed three lives and 73 cattle. Government agencies have been dispatched to the affected region to contain the spread of the deadly disease.
Hon. Hellen Adoa, the Minister of State for Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (Fisheries), informed Parliament on September 24, 2024, that a response team from the Ministries of Agriculture and Health had been sent to Kanungu to assess and manage the situation. “Cabinet directed the Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Health to rush to Kanungu. As we speak, our team is on the ground,” Adoa told the House.
In an effort to contain the disease, she added that the government plans to establish a quarantine center to prevent anthrax from spreading to other parts of the country.
This action was in response to concerns raised by Hon. James Kaberuka, the MP for Kinkizi County West, who emphasized the urgency of the situation. “As we talk, the mobility of the vets is not defined because they do not have motorcycles or fuel, and the district is also grappling with funds. So, we need support,” Kaberuka urged.
Hon. Anifa Kawooya, the State Minister for Health (General Duties), confirmed that health officials were already on-site and expected a comprehensive report to guide further intervention. "We are waiting for a report so that we can send a bigger team from the ministry," Kawooya stated, outlining plans to increase personnel in the area by September 25.
ICT Minister Chris Baryomunsi, who also represents Kinkizi County East, called for a coordinated inter-ministerial approach. He stressed the need for vaccines to immunize unaffected cattle and additional medical supplies to treat infected humans. “Both ministries should work together to ensure that the government is fully on the ground,” Baryomunsi urged.
Anthrax is a serious infectious disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, a bacterium found in soil. While primarily affecting animals, it can also spread to humans through contact with infected livestock or contaminated animal products. The government is working to prevent a larger outbreak and mitigate further losses.
