In a move that has sparked both astonishment and bewildered amusement, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has announced a radical new initiative to combat the escalating Lassa Fever outbreak: a nationwide bounty program offering Ksh10,000 for every rat killed.

“We are facing a national health crisis and drastic measures are required. These rodents are not only vectors for the deadly Lassa Fever, but they are also a public nuisance. We must take back our cities and our homes!” Duale declared at a hastily arranged press conference morning,

The Lassa Fever outbreak, transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their excretions, has caused widespread concern, with symptoms ranging from fever and headaches to potentially fatal kidney failure. In response, the Ministry of Health has devised what many are calling an “unorthodox” solution.

The program, dubbed “Operation Rodent Reaper,” will begin immediately, with designated “rat collection centers” being set up in major urban areas.

Citizens are instructed to bring in their deceased rodents, where they will be counted and verified by ministry officials. Each verified rat will earn the hunter a cool Ksh10,000.

“We believe this will incentivize our citizens to take an active role in combating this menace,” Duale explained, “Think of it as a patriotic duty, with a financial reward!”

However, the program has already drawn criticism. Environmentalists have expressed concern about the potential ecological impact of a mass rodent extermination, while animal rights activists have condemned the initiative as “inhumane.”

“This is a recipe for disaster,” said Dr. Fauna Baraka, a leading environmental scientist.

“We have no idea what the long-term effects of removing such a large number of rodents will be on our ecosystem.”

The Ministry of Health has assured the public that they have “considered all potential consequences” and are confident that the program will be a success.

They have also issued guidelines on safe rat-hunting practices, including wearing gloves and masks, and avoiding direct contact with rodent carcasses.

“We understand this may seem like an unconventional approach but these are unconventional times. We urge all Kenyans to join us in this fight. Together, we can rid our nation of these disease-carrying pests and earn a little extra cash in the process,” Duale admitted

As of press time, the first “rat collection centers” were reportedly experiencing long queues, with citizens armed with traps, sticks, and even makeshift flamethrowers.

The Ministry of Health has advised caution and urged citizens to “exercise restraint” in their rodent-hunting endeavors.

Disclaimer: This article is a work of satire and intended for April Fools’ Day. Please do not attempt to capture rodents for cash. Lassa Fever is a serious health concern, and official health guidelines should always be followed.