Nebbi District's Meat Ban Spurs Increased Demand for Fish and Legumes

In response to a Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak, Nebbi District authorities have imposed a ban on the sale and transportation of livestock and related products. This measure, implemented two weeks ago, has led to a notable shift in local dietary habits, with residents turning to fish, silverfish, and beans as alternative protein sources.

The initial FMD case was reported in Lee Parish, Kucwiny Subcounty, late last year, resulting in the death of 26 mature animals. 

Dr. William Abedkane, the Nebbi District Veterinary Officer, stated that the disease has since spread to nearby subcounties, including Alala and Atego, partly due to increased livestock movement during the festive season. To curb the spread, a quarantine on animal movement and a suspension of meat sales have been enforced. 

This ban has significantly impacted local butchers and livestock traders. Geoffrey Jalum, Chairman of the Nebbi Butchery Association, expressed concerns over financial strains faced by butchers, many of whom are struggling to service loans due to the halt in operations. He has appealed to district authorities to permit the slaughter of animals imported from unaffected regions, such as Lira District, to alleviate the economic burden. 

Farmers reliant on livestock sales for income are also feeling the effects. Okumu Alex, a farmer from Kucwiny Subcounty, highlighted difficulties in meeting financial obligations, including paying school fees, due to the imposed quarantine. 

In the absence of meat, the community's dietary preferences have shifted towards fish, silverfish, and beans, leading to increased demand for these products. This change underscores the community's adaptability and the importance of diverse protein sources in maintaining nutritional balance during such outbreaks.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, aiming to control the disease's spread and mitigate its impact on both public health and the local economy.