The government has taken a major step towards improving the health and commercial value of livestock across Tanzania, as the Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Dr. Ashatu Kijaji, launched a nationwide vaccination campaign in Mokilal Village, Ngorongoro District, Arusha Region.
The initiative is part of a TSh 216 billion five-year National Livestock Vaccination Plan (2025–2030), officially unveiled by President Samia Suluhu Hassan in Bariadi, Simiyu Region, on June 16, 2025.
Already, over TSh 62 billion has been disbursed for the 2025 rollout, underscoring the government’s commitment to transforming the livestock sector into a robust contributor to Tanzania’s economy.
“The vaccination programme is designed to protect the health of our animals, increase their market value, and empower livestock keepers to benefit more from their efforts,” said Dr. Kijaji.
To ensure broader participation, the government has significantly subsidised vaccination costs. Cattle keepers will now pay just TSh 500 per cow, down from TSh 1,000, while goat and sheep vaccinations will cost TSh 300 per animal instead of the earlier TSh 500.
“This cost-sharing model reflects the government’s dedication to supporting pastoralist communities while ensuring sustainability of the programme,” added Dr. Kijaji.
The Director of Livestock Services at the Ministry, Benezeth Lutege, highlighted that beyond disease prevention, the vaccination drive will also support broader sectoral reforms.
The campaign will facilitate accurate livestock data collection, support pasture planning, and provide a foundation for financial access, as animals will be registered with digital ear tags enabling traceability and use as collateral in formal financial systems.
“This is more than a vaccination drive it is a gateway to inclusive economic empowerment for livestock keepers,” Lutege noted.
Speaking at the event, Arusha Regional Commissioner Kenan Kihongosi praised the strong turnout by Ngorongoro residents and reaffirmed the region’s commitment to mobilising more livestock owners.
“Pastoralists in Arusha have shown a commendable response. We are determined to ensure every eligible animal is vaccinated. This is how we build healthy herds and resilient livelihoods,” Kihongosi said.
Ngorongoro MP Emmanuel Shangai also lauded the government’s efforts and called on pastoralists to embrace the programme.
“This campaign brings real, tangible benefits. Healthier animals mean higher incomes. I urge all livestock keepers to take part and protect their livestock against preventable diseases,” he said.
With livestock playing a central role in rural livelihoods and Tanzania’s broader agricultural economy, the national vaccination campaign is expected to improve productivity, reduce losses from disease outbreaks, and open new markets for pastoralists across the country.
The programme is a key part of President Samia’s vision to modernise Tanzania’s agriculture and livestock sectors through science-based, inclusive, and economically sustainable interventions.