Dr Willy Nguma the Veterinary Officer Arua on Friday confirmed the closure of the livestock markets and said many people congregate from different places at the markets posing a high risk of spreading Coronavirus.
Arua district Veterinary department has closed all the nine livestock markets in the district in the latest move to curb the possibility of spreading Coronavirus.
Dr Willy Nguma the Veterinary Officer Arua on Friday confirmed the closure of the livestock markets and said many people congregate from different places at the markets posing a high risk of spreading Coronavirus.
According to Dr Nguma, all Sub Counties with livestock markets like Ejome, Odramacaku, Kubala, Nyio, Ajia, Ocodri, among others are accordingly directed to stop them, adding that the implementation of the guideline will put into consideration that meat supply is not affected.
// Cue in; The Coronavirus …
Cue out; production places…. //
According to Donath Eswilu the Chief Administrative Officer Arua, the Sub County chiefs have been tasked to ensure full compliance with the directive with immediate effect.
“The district veterinary officer and Sub County LC III chairpersons are asked to ensure compliance starting Friday 20th March 2020,” said Donath.
Musa Ajiga a cattle dealer says he will resort to buying animals from homes to ensure his business continues since that is the only source of income.
“I have nothing to do apart from changing to moving in homes to look for these animals though it may also be risky for me,” said Musa.
Many cattle traders in Arua have been relying on cattle from markets in the districts of Bukedea, Soroti and Apac which has accordingly been stopped due to the coronavirus scare.
Hotel owners, butchers and meat consumers have expressed fears of a drastic hike in the price of meat as the ban on livestock markets takes effect.
Story by Candia Stephen
