Government Launches Deltamethrin Distribution to Fight Tsetse Flies

What the report says

Uganda’s Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries has begun distributing deltamethrin to 41 districts identified as high-risk for tsetse flies, according to Nile Post. The programme was launched by State Minister for Animal Industry Bright Rwamirama and is intended to curb the insects, protect livestock and reduce the spread of trypanosomiasis, a disease that affects animals and can also cause sleeping sickness in people.

The ministry said the chemical will go to districts across several sub-regions, including Acholi, Ankole and Buganda. Deltamethrin is commonly used in livestock pest control and is effective against ticks, biting flies and tsetse flies. Officials described the rollout as part of a wider government strategy to reduce the burden of animal trypanosomiasis, sometimes called nagana, which can damage livestock productivity and rural livelihoods.

Rwamirama also warned district officials against mishandling the supplies, saying they should not give farmers less than the recommended dose or divert the remainder for sale. The article notes that tsetse flies remain a concern in and around wildlife areas, making the issue relevant not only for animal health but also for tourism and community safety.

Nile Post reported that the distribution is expected to support existing control efforts, such as spraying, traps and other vector-management measures. The article also said long-term control will depend on surveillance and farmer awareness, not chemicals alone.