To combat an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease affecting animals, animal authorities in Uganda have reportedly prohibited the sale of meat in the capital city of Kampala.
In a letter cited by various local media outlets, the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries stated, “Movement of cattle, goats, sheep, pigs and their products and by-products from, to, through and within Kampala Capital City Authority, Kampala District, is prohibited until further notice.”
The ministry also ordered the closure of livestock markets, slaughter places, butcheries, loading grounds, and animal shows across the entire district with immediate effect.
Although the letter is dated March 1, Kampala authorities received it on Thursday, as reported by the privately owned Daily Monitor newspaper.
A city official informed the newspaper that they would collaborate with other agencies to enforce the quarantine measures. However, despite the restrictions, local media sources indicate that butcheries in the city are still operational.
Foot-and-mouth disease is highly contagious and causes fever and painful blisters inside the mouth and under the hooves of affected animals. It can be particularly lethal for young animals.