Fear has engulfed Sidai village, Subukia constituency over possible outbreak of zoonotic diseases after large scale livestock farmers left over 150 cows’ carcasses to rot on the ground.
The residents have also complained over foul smell emanating from the decomposing carcasses calling upon the government livestock and environment officers to intervene.
Christopher Karuiru a resident of Sidai village in Subukia said the carcasses are decomposing on the vast Muruai Farm is owned by the late former Rift Valley PC Isaiah Mathenge.
“We are exposed to hazardous environment and government officers must save us before diseases outbreak is reported,” Karuiru said.
Another resident Mary Wanjiru decried that animals affected were brought from Laikipia due to prolonged drought in the area and might have been sick.
In February, Nakuru County government raised a red flag over the outbreak of Foot and Mouth disease.
Nakuru County Executive Member in charge of Agriculture Dr. Stanely Chepkwony pointed that, over 7,000 cattle from neighbouring counties entered Nakuru.
“Cattle from Narok, Laikipia counties traversing in our territory are not vaccinated and has therefore spiraled the spread of the disease,” Dr Chepkwony.
Wanjiru added that, they have complained to the farm management, area chief and deputy county commissioner over decomposing animals and foul smell but no action.
“The carcasses are eaten by dogs dragging the remains into water bodies which residents use for domestic purposes. We fear that there will be outbreak of diseases,” she added.
According to the Muruai Farm Manager Jeremiah Mutuura the crisis of animals dying was a result of prolonged drought.
He said in the past one month, they have lost over 200 cows and hundreds are sickly and emaciated in various farms in the area.
“In our farm we have lost over 25 cows and their remains we use petrol to burn. Over 200 cows and 400 sheep are affected.” Mutuura said.
He said they have engaged ministry of agriculture officers, but nothing has taken place.
