NICHOLAS A
The Rukungiri Deputy RDC, Ahimbisibwe Wilberforce Ongom, has called on local leaders, particularly at the sub-county level, to join efforts in combating illegal animal slaughter during the festive season to protect residents from disease outbreaks.
In an interview with our reporter at his office, Ongom highlighted that neighboring districts have recently been battling anthrax and foot-and-mouth disease, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance during this period.
He stressed that livestock markets would remain closed during the festive season, in line with the quarantine directives issued by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Fisheries. Ongom warned that any local leaders defying this directive and reopening livestock markets without ministry authorization would face penalties.
Instead, he encouraged leaders to support legal slaughtering by ensuring that animals are verified, tested, and approved by veterinary officers before slaughter. He also revealed that some local leaders are planning to reopen livestock markets unlawfully, a move he deemed unacceptable.
Benon Mugisha Aunt, the LC3 Chairperson for Buhunga Sub-County, told our reporter that his sub-county is already complying with the directives. He noted that they recently formed an association uniting animal traders, transporters, and meat sellers to collectively combat illegal slaughtering.
He added that Buhunga Sub-County has begun registering individuals intending to slaughter animals during the festive season as a way to curb illegal slaughtering and prevent animal theft during this period.
