Rwanda National Police

Police, veterinary personnel and people involved in livestock business in Ngoma District met on August 12 and discussed measures aimed at ensuring smooth cattle trade and prevent theft.

Gilbert Bugingo, the District Veterinary Officer reminded participants of the requirements to transport cattle from one place to another including seeking written authorisation from a local leader in the area where a cow is bought.

He told them that cattle are transported before 6:00pm, bear a ring on the ear as a mark that it's being transported.

All this, he said, it's meant to prevent cattle theft and to identify those stolen.

This process also prevents sell or buying of heifer from Gir'inka beneficiaries.

Assistant Inspector of Police Jean Pierre Ndayisaba,Ngoma district Community Liaison Officer (DCLO) appealed to the participants to always move with all the required documents so as to present them whenever asked.

"The meeting was vital because we were reminded of the procedures we have to go through to avoid buying stolen cows or those given to vulnerable families under one cow per household project," Innocent Rutagengwa, one of the participants, said.