{
  "id": 496002,
  "title": "Veterinary experts sound alarm over El Niño threat to livestock",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/10/veterinary-experts-sound-alarm-over-el-nino-threat-to-livestock",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-08-10T19:30:49.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "People Daily Kenya",
    "slug": "people-daily-kenya",
    "url": "https://peopledaily.digital/news/veterinary-experts-sound-alarm-over-el-nino-threat-to-livestock"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Veterinary specialists have issued a warning about the potential impact of El Niño on Kenya's livestock industry, urging proactive measures to mitigate risks. The Kenya Veterinary Association (KVA) issued a statement on August 10, 2026, expressing concern that the return of El Niño conditions could disrupt the sector if preventive actions are not taken promptly. World Meteorological Organization and other climate agencies predict a high likelihood of El Niño persisting through 2026 into early 2027.\n\nThe anticipated weather patterns could lead to increased transmission of vector-borne and climate-sensitive diseases, livestock injuries and deaths, damage to livestock infrastructure, disruption of livestock supply chains, and threats to the livelihoods of millions of pastoralists and farmers. Similar effects were observed during the 2023–2024 El Niño, which brought widespread flooding, livestock displacement, destruction of infrastructure, and water contamination, leading to outbreaks of water-borne diseases and livelihood disruption.\n\nKVA president Kelvin Osore highlighted the importance of preparedness, stating that it is far less costly than emergency responses after disasters have already occurred. The association commended the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) for initiating preparedness steps, such as enhanced disease surveillance, vector and parasite control, improved laboratory capacity, and pre-positioning of vaccines and emergency supplies. Additional measures include strategic vaccinations against Rift Valley Fever and other priority diseases, feed and fodder preparedness, water point rehabilitation, and public risk communication.\n\nKVA is advocating for accelerated implementation of these measures through timely financing, emergency pre-emptive livestock vaccination campaigns, and protection of water infrastructure. The organization also recommends the activation of emergency destocking programs by September 2026 and the deployment of mobile veterinary units to high-risk pastoral areas. Strengthened coordination between national and county governments, rapid mobilization of resources, and pre-positioning of veterinary supplies and feed reserves are also crucial. KVA and DVS plan to collaborate more closely on public awareness, technical advocacy, joint resource mobilization, and the development of a costed preparedness and response proposal.\n\nOsore emphasized the need for livestock owners to consult veterinary professionals for vaccination advice, strengthen vector and parasite control, safeguard feed and water supplies, and identify safe areas for animals in flood-prone locations. He concluded by stating that despite the significant challenge posed by the anticipated El Niño event, Kenya has an opportunity to showcase the benefits of early preparedness, coordinated action, and strong partnerships. The KVA urges farmers to report unusual animal illnesses or deaths promptly and adhere to veterinary authorities' advisories.",
  "summary": "Veterinary experts have raised concern over the expected return of El Niño conditions, warning of possible disruption to Kenya’s livestock sector and livelihoods if preparedness measures are not implemented in time. The Kenya Veterinary Association (KVA), in a statement issued Monday, August 10, 2026, by its president, Kelvin Osore, cited forecasts from the World Meteorological […]",
  "key_points": [
    "El Niño threatens Kenya's livestock industry, warns veterinary experts",
    "Increased disease transmission and livestock deaths expected",
    "KVA urges proactive measures and preparedness for El Niño impact"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}