Muhokya Town Council in Kasese District has given the final nod of approval and passed an ordinance to enforce animal control and grazing within the town council limits.
The ordinance which was approved by council members unanimously provides for the control, regulation, registration and licensing of the keeping and movement of livestock in the town centre and surrounding peri-urban places.
The council also approved a fine of 10,000 shillings and 5,000 shillings for each cow and goat or sheep respectively found grazing or marauding within the town centre, market places, dumping grounds, town council premises or any open ground.
This ordinance will come into force within 30-days after a community sensitization campaign by the town clerk.
Hon. Ernest Masereka, the town council speaker said they have been forced to come up with more stringent restrictions on animal rearing and movements within the town council to create order and also safeguard the town council from litigations in case of accidents caused by roaming animals. Hon. Ernest speaking………
The town council chairperson, Mr. Robert Guma says the by-law will go a long way to safeguard farmers who have often lost their crops to stray domestic animals that will also source for revenue inform of fines to the owners. Mr. Guma speaking……..
Ms. Hilda Kemigabo, one of many area residents in Muhokya Town who are frustrated by the insatiable appetites of domestic animals, says they can no longer grow any foods around their homes due to the animals. END