By Peter Kuol Kuch and Alan Clement
The Jonglei State government in partnership with UNMISS Indian Battalion have launched the two-day East Coast fever vaccination campaign in Jonglei State capital Bor on Friday.
The East coast fever Vaccination Campaign targets 5000 livestock including sheep and goats in the state.
The Launching ceremony was attended by Jonglei State acting governor, Officials from Ministry of Livestock, Veterinary service, Livestock farmers, traders, Community leaders, the food and Agriculture Organisation UNFAO, Indian Ambassador to South Sudan and the UNMISS representatives.
Speaking during the Launching Event, Hon. John Chuol, the acting governor in Jonglei State emphasised the need to embrace an improved-agricultural development for better living standards.
“As a government, we are committed to increasing the livestock sector’s contribution to South Sudan GDP from current 12 percent to 20 percent.’’ John Said.
He expressed his deep appreciations to government of Indian through United Nations Mission in South Sudan(UNMISS) for supporting agriculture through livestock vaccinations with the aim to improve animals’ health and enhance agricultural productivity.
“The today’s launch is a bold step toward the goal. We thank the India government, UNMISS Leadership and Indian Battalion for their unwavering support and cooperation. He said.
Meanwhile the head of UNMISS Bor field office Geetha Piou reconfirm United Nations Mission in South Sudan UNMISS commitment in Supporting peace-building and development activities for the people of South Sudan.
“We are thankful to Indian contingent for their dedication, meanwhile as the UNMISS we are committed to safeguarding peace effort in the Country. We are also thankful to the leadership of Jonglei State government under able leader Dr. Riek Gai for his tireless effort to peace’’ She said.
For his part, the Indian Ambassador to South Sudan ensured that the Vaccination exercise is free of charge and he pledged the next round of vaccination aiming to impactful Animal health improvement.
She urges Jonglei State leadership to remain committed in ensuring proper security and advocate for peace with Jonglei State neighbours.
Speaking during the launching event, Kur Ayuen Kou, the Secretary General for Jonglei State government highlighted the urgency need to eradicate East Coast fever among the livestock across Jonglei State.
“There is an urgent need to eradicate this Jok Juba (East Coast Fever) it’s a deadly disease but we appreciate the Indian battalion for initiating this program for live-saving of livestock.’’ Kur said.
The Initiative came following Jonglei State Governor Dr. Riek Gai Kok engagement with Indian government requesting livestock vaccines for East coast fever and foot and Mouth diseases in Jonglei State.