Residents of Nyarushanje sub-county in Rukungiri district are expressing deep concerns about a significant problem of animal theft, which they believe is causing them substantial financial losses.
They feel that their ability to engage in animal husbandry is severely hampered by the persistent theft of their animals.
Innocent Muhwezi, a resident of Kibishamwiika in Nyarushanje Sub County, has been directly affected by this issue.
He recently had four goats stolen, which he views as a setback in their struggle to escape poverty and cope with the challenging economic conditions.
Consequently, he’s appealing to local security leaders to take action and address the problem of animal theft in Nyarushanje Sub County.
Michael Musiime, the LC3 Chairperson, shares the concerns of the sub-county authorities about the increasing incidents of animal theft in the area.
They have tried to track and apprehend some of the individuals responsible for stealing domestic animals.
Regrettably, it’s reported that 4-5 goats are stolen daily. One of the suspects, Martin Kyabakunda, is currently in custody at Nyarushanje police post. Musiime is determined to collaborate with other authorities to combat animal theft, which is undermining the region’s development.
According to Henry Kamugisha, specific areas in Nyarushanje are particularly prone to animal theft, including Ibanda, Bunono, Bwanga, Ihunga, Burora, Kisizi, and Nyabushenyi.
He revealed that there is an organized network of thieves cooperating with Martin Kyabakunda to infiltrate villages and steal people’s animals.
To address this issue, sub-county authorities have decided to establish security committees at the village level.
Godwill Muzoora, the Nyarushanje sub-county health inspector, has noted that many residents are resorting to keeping their animals indoors to protect them from theft, a situation that he believes endangers people’s lives.
