Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha Kagwe has called for the introduction of digital identification systems for cows, goats and sheep to help combat livestock theft, according to a report by Kenyans.co.ke.
The proposed system would allow livestock to be registered and tracked using digital records, making it easier for authorities and owners to identify animals and verify their ownership.
Kagwe said digital identification could help address the rising cases of livestock theft by improving traceability and strengthening accountability within the livestock sector.
The initiative is expected to support farmers, law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders in tracking animals from the point of registration through movement, sale or transfer.
Digital records could also help resolve ownership disputes and make it more difficult for stolen livestock to be sold or moved without detection.
The proposal comes amid concerns over livestock theft, which continues to affect farmers and communities in different parts of the country.
Authorities and livestock owners would be able to use the identification system to access accurate information about an animal’s owner, location and movement history.
The system could also improve the management of livestock markets by ensuring that animals presented for sale are properly identified and linked to legitimate owners.
Kagwe’s proposal highlights the growing use of technology in addressing challenges facing the agricultural and livestock sectors.
Further details on the implementation of the digital identification system, including the technology to be used and the agencies responsible for managing it, are expected to be provided as the plan progresses.
The initiative is likely to attract attention from farmers and livestock traders seeking stronger measures to protect animals and reduce losses caused by theft.