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One of the animals that is affected by anthrax. Photo Jovita Hasto
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By Jovita Hasto
BUSHENYI — Authorities in Bushenyi District have declared a one-month quarantine and imposed a ban on the movement of cattle and the sale of their products in Kyabugimbi Sub-county following an anthrax outbreak that has claimed one life, hospitalized several others, and killed multiple animals.
The outbreak has affected the sub-counties of Ruhumuro and Kyabugimbi in Kajojo Parish, where one person has been confirmed dead, nine others hospitalized, and four cattle reported dead.
In response, district authorities have imposed a one-month quarantine on the movement of animals into and out of the affected areas in an effort to contain the spread of the disease.
The ban on cattle movement, sale, and consumption of their products—announced by the Resident District Commissioner on Thursday, April 10, 2025—is intended to prevent further spread of the disease in the area and neighboring communities.
Mr. Robert Natukunda, the District Veterinary Officer of Bushenyi, said the outbreak was first suspected in late March 2025 after people began showing signs and symptoms of anthrax.
He explained that the quarantine is aimed at saving lives, especially among those who may have consumed meat from infected animals, even though serious cases among animals have not yet been widely reported.
“We have also banned the movement and slaughtering of animals in the sub-county to protect lives, as most cases so far have been recorded in humans. We have not yet registered serious cases of anthrax in animals,” he said.
Mr. Hillary Twebaze, the District Secretary, urged the public to comply with the guidelines issued by security agencies to avoid further infections.
“Security organs must ensure that these guidelines and resolutions are followed. We call upon the public not to buy meat that has not been inspected by our technical team, especially since we already have patients admitted at Kyabugimbi Health Centre IV,” he said.
Mr. Emmy Ngabirano, the Bushenyi Resident District Commissioner, advised locals to remain vigilant and adhere to the restrictions imposed by the authorities to stop the spread of anthrax.
While issuing directives on the movement and consumption of cattle products, Mr. Ngabirano emphasized the importance of community cooperation.
“As the District Security Committee, we have resolved that there will be no slaughtering of animals in Kyabugimbi for the next one month, and no movement of animals, in order to control the spread. People should avoid eating meat from animals that have died from anthrax. Anyone who witnesses such behavior should report it to the nearest authorities—we cannot afford to lose lives due to negligence,” he warned.
He added that all meat in Kyabugimbi must be tested and approved by the district’s veterinary team before it can be consumed.
The ban comes just as Christians in the district are preparing for the Easter festival, which is set to begin soon.
Torch Media Africa
