Pig farmers in Gulu District are reeling from heavy losses following a suspected outbreak of African swine fever that has killed more than 80 pigs in the past week.
African swine fever is a highly contagious and fatal viral disease affecting domestic and wild pigs.
The worst-hit areas include Patiko, Bungatira, and Unyama sub-counties, where farmers have reported rapid deaths among their animals.
Patrick Komakech in Bungatira disclosed that he lost 10 pigs in just three days, amounting to a loss of at least Shs3 million.
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“The pigs had high fever, lost their appetite, and had diarrhea before dying one after another,” he was quoted saying.
While not a threat to humans, it poses a significant economic risk due to the lack of treatment or vaccine.
Alex Okello, a veterinary assistant with Pig Production Uganda Limited, said many farmers fail to dispose of infected carcasses properly.
“Instead of burning and burying the dead pigs, some farmers are selling the meat in local markets, making containment efforts difficult,” Okello said.
He cited an incident where a farmer was found selling the carcass of a diseased pig at Bungatira Trading Centre.
Samples from the 100kg pig have since been sent to Gulu Veterinary Lab for testing.
Gulu District Veterinary Officer Alfred Opiyo said he “lacked sufficient information on the suspected outbreak.”
However, authorities are urging farmers to enforce strict hygiene measures and properly dispose of infected animals to prevent further spread.
Veterinary experts blame poor biosecurity measures for the rapid spread of the disease.
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