Members of the Turkana County Assembly Departmental Committee on Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries are in Lokichar for a sensitization session on the proposed Turkana County Animal Health Bill, 2023.
The proposed Bill provides a framework to promote animal health, welfare, and disease control.
The County Veterinary Services and Attorney’s Office are carrying out sensitization and technical backstopping
In his opening remarks, County Executive for Agriculture, Livestock Development and Fisheries, David Erukudi outlined the contents of the Bill and admitted that the public participation process had been delayed due to financial challenges, that had finally been resolved.
“What we want to operationalize is for the good of the people we are representing. As the representatives of the people, we should ensure what is taking place is to their benefit” CECM Erukudi said.
He acknowledged livestock partners for their support in facilitating the preparation of the Bill and assured MCAs that the Government was open to incorporating additional views and amendments to the Bill, with a view of strengthening it to meet the desired goal.
The Directorate of Veterinary Services and its partners will employ a multi-sectoral approach, as it proposes the involvement of stakeholders in the livestock value chain to reach a state of disease-free zones for markets and biosafety.
The County Assembly Deputy Speaker Philip Ekuwam applauded the Livestock Department for involving them in the process, stating that it will present an opportunity for members to learn more about what’s contained in the proposed Bill.
He stated their desire to execute the Bill on the floor of the House after undergoing the necessary public participation process, noting that the County Assembly was keen not only on passing laws but also on the implementation of the same, for the benefit of the people in Turkana County.
Katilu MCA, who is also the chair of the Committee, Etubon Samal, assured of their commitment to enacting and implementing the Bill that he said, was long overdue.
In attendance were partner representatives from USAID Nawiri and WeltHungerHilfe (WHH).
