More than 106,000 livestock have been vaccinated in Twic East and Bor counties of Jonglei State this month as herders return their cattle to the region after years of displacement caused by flooding and disease outbreaks.
The vaccination campaign, launched by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), aims to protect cattle, goats, and sheep against major endemic diseases, improve animal health, and strengthen livelihoods for communities that depend heavily on livestock.
For several years, many cattle keepers migrated to Eastern Equatoria State in search of safer grazing areas after devastating floods and recurring livestock diseases affected large parts of Jonglei.
Speaking during the campaign, FAO Bor Field Focal Point, Simon Nyoap, said the initiative is designed to reduce disease risks and enhance food security across the affected communities.
“Our goal is to ensure livestock productivity, connect communities to veterinary services, and safeguard food security,” he said. “Healthy livestock are the backbone of rural livelihoods. By preventing disease outbreaks, we are helping families protect their assets, improve nutrition, and build resilience against future shocks.”
Local authorities and livestock owners welcomed the intervention, saying the return of cattle to Jonglei presents an opportunity to rebuild herds and revive economic activities that were disrupted by years of flooding and displacement.
A livestock owner in Twic East County expressed optimism about the campaign.
“The vaccination gives us confidence that our animals will remain healthy as they return home,” he stated. “Strong and healthy cattle mean better livelihoods for our families.”
FAO said the campaign forms part of broader efforts to strengthen animal health services, improve disease surveillance, and support sustainable livestock production in South Sudan’s flood-affected areas.
Officials believe that protecting livestock from disease will not only boost productivity but also contribute to long-term food security and economic recovery in Jonglei State.
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