The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), through its Department of Animal Health has donated a solar-powered cold chain refrigeration system to Kazo district under the Production Department. Installation of the system began yesterday and is currently ongoing at the District Headquarters.

This solar-powered refrigeration system is intended for the storage of veterinary vaccines. All animal vaccines for the district will now be stored centrally at the district headquarters, ensuring improved vaccine safety and accessibility.

Previously, Kazo district relied on a small laboratory facility that frequently experienced power outages and high electricity costs. The unreliable power supply not only threatened the efficacy of stored vaccines but also incurred daily electricity expenses of approximately UGX 10,000. This new solar-powered system will significantly reduce these costs while providing a reliable solution for vaccine storage.

Speaking during an interview, Tumwijukye Innocent the District Agricultural Engineer and Project Supervisor, confirmed that the installation process is progressing well and the facility is nearly complete, awaiting official handover by MAAIF. He emphasized the importance of engaging district veterinary officials for technical support and guidance on the proper use of the system.

Zefrine Tumwesigye, the District Production Officer, expressed his gratitude to MAAIF for the timely support. “We thank the Ministry of Agriculture for remembering Kazo District. Our production department truly needed this facility, and now our vaccines will be properly stored,” he said.

Representing the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Deputy CAO Keith Bahemuka commended the Government of Uganda for extending a helping hand to the district. He urged residents to always consult veterinary officers for technical guidance in the fight against livestock diseases. “We recently overcame challenges such as Foot and Mouth Disease and this was due to a collective effort,” he noted.

Ham Rubainika, the district councilor for Kyampangara sub-couty and Secretary for Production and Finance, also extended his appreciation to the government. “As a district, we now have a reliable system for storing vaccines. This is a great boost for our farmers and the entire production department,” he said.

This donation marks a significant step in strengthening veterinary services and livestock health in Kazo District, ultimately contributing to improved agricultural productivity and food security.

Tinyefuza Naboth – Kazo District Communications Officer