Kibaale District Deputy Resident District Commissioner Godfrey Kamagara has called on parish chiefs to intensify sensitization of livestock farmers about domestic animal registration.
Kamagara says livestock registration is important because it enables authorities to identify animals, establish ownership and monitor their health and movement.
The registration is being implemented through the Uganda Livestock Identification and Traceability System, U-LITS, managed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries.
Kamagara explains that under the system, livestock are given unique identification codes that can be used to trace their movement from farms to markets and other destinations. He says the information also helps authorities identify the location of farmers and respond more effectively to livestock-related challenges.
However, Kamagara notes that some livestock farmers are still hesitant to embrace the programme, making public sensitization necessary.
The U-LITS programme is expected to strengthen livestock disease surveillance, support the implementation of government livestock policies and improve food safety by making it easier to trace animals and their products.
Kamagara has therefore urged parish chiefs to work closely with livestock farmers and explain the benefits of registration so that more farmers can comply with the programme.