By; JACOB ONJEWU DICKSON
The Kaduna State Government has said that it will soon begin the disinfection of all poultry markets as part of measures to mitigate the spread of bird flu in the state.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources,
Murtala Dabo made this known on Wednesday in Kaduna, during a stakeholders engagement meeting to mitigate the spread of Avian Influenza (AI).
According to him, the meeting was part of the state’s proactive measures towards safeguard the poultry industry and the well-being of the communities.
Dabo said that the state would soon commence the decontamination of live bird markets across the state as part of efforts to mitigate the spread of bird flu.
According to him, the harmattan season came with the challenges of various diseases, hence, the need for collaborative efforts and strategic planning to prevent the spread of bird flu.
He said that the meeting was sponsored by Olam Farms, who were partners towards safeguarding the state’s poultry industry.
The commissioner called on all the participants to share their expertise for comprehensive plans to fight the spread of avian influenza in the state.
Earlier, Dr Zakariya Pakachi, Director, Veterinary and Livestock Services, state Ministry of Agriculture, assured the participants that veterinary doctors would be assigned to all the markets for sensitisation and surveillance.
“During the exercise, we will be sensitising as well as enlighten bird sellers on practical ways to take better care of their birds.
“These pep talks have gone a long way to reducing the spate of death among birds in the state,” he said.
In his presentation, Dr Abel Williams, Desk Officer, Avian Influenza Control Project, Kaduna State, said the live bird market was the main source of AI which required special attention and intervention.
He disclosed that the North-West, being an epicenter due to the pattern of Avian Influenza spread, required proactive measures in safeguarding the industry.Williams also said that it was necessary for bio-security and bio-safety measures in all live bird markets to be heightened
