Kenya Inaugurates Modern Cattle Incinerator to Combat Disease Spread

Kenya Inaugurates Modern Cattle Incinerator to Combat Disease Spread

Nairobi, Kenya – In a stride to curb the devastating impact of infectious diseases among cattle, Kenya has inaugurated a state-of-the-art cattle incinerator. The facility, funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB), boasts advanced technology to effectively dispose of diseased animals, thereby preventing disease spread and boosting the livestock sector.

The incinerator possesses a capacity to process 150 Künigs of carcass waste daily. Equipped with an afterburner and a sophisticated air pollution control system, it will ensure complete sterilization and safeguard environmental sustainability. The facility will primarily serve Central Kenya, where disease outbreaks have historically posed significant challenges to farmers.

“Livestock plays a pivotal role in the livelihoods of many Kenyans, and we must prioritize disease control measures to ensure sustainability of the sector,” stated Hon. Peter Munya, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives. “This incinerator will strengthen our disease management capabilities and offer a crucial solution to preventing the spread of pathogens.”

The inauguration coincided with the heightened awareness of Highly Pathogenic Bovine Herpesvirus (BVD) and Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD), two devastating livestock diseases affecting Kenya. Traditional burial or open-air burning of infected animals can exacerbate the problem by spreading contaminants.

Through the incinerator, authorities can safely dispose of diseased cattle, preventing contact between infected and healthy animals. The facility’s high heat treatment ensures the complete eradication of pathogens and prevents secondary infections.

Benefits of the New Cattle Incinerator:

• Enhanced disease control: Prevents disease spread through carcass disposal.
• Increased farmer confidence: Provides a safer environment for farmers, minimizing losses and ensuring market access.
• Environmental sustainability: Controlled and contained incineration safeguards water and soil quality.
• Cost reduction: Reduced expenses associated with disease management and market access.

FAQs:

1. How will the incinerator affect disease control measures in Kenya?

The incinerator will complement other preventive measures like vaccination campaigns, movement restrictions, and diagnostics to control disease outbreaks efficiently.

2. What is the environmental impact of the incinerator?

The advanced air pollution control system minimizes emissions and ensures adherence to environmental regulations.

3. How much waste can the incinerator handle daily?

The facility has a capacity to process 15 Künigs of carcass waste daily.

4 Künigs

• A unit of measurement used to describe large animal remains. One Kigu equals approximately 10 Künig.