NAIROBI, Kenya – Pastoralist communities in Kenya could soon benefit from tougher protections against livestock theft as lawmakers advance the Prevention of Livestock and Produce Theft Bill, 2023.
The Bill, first introduced in the Senate, proposes strict penalties for offenders, including imprisonment of up to five years or fines of up to Sh2 million.
It also mandates clear systems for identifying and tracking livestock, including branding and removal permits when animals are moved.
“The Bill imposes an obligation on the national and county governments to protect livestock-keeping communities while enhancing their socioeconomic welfare through education and alternative livelihoods,” the legislation states.
The move comes amid rising incidents of cattle rustling, including a recent violent raid in Welegech village, Kokuro, Kibish, Turkana County, where police repelled an attack by about 50 armed bandits, leaving two suspected rustlers dead.
The Departmental Committee on Agriculture and Livestock, which reviewed the Bill, endorsed its passage but recommended fine adjustments to better reflect the severity of various offences.
The committee also called for a regional approach, stressing stronger border controls and collaboration with neighbouring countries such as Uganda, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Tanzania, citing persistent cross-border livestock theft.
If enacted, the Bill is expected to strengthen legal safeguards for pastoralist communities, reduce livestock theft, and enhance security in counties long plagued by cattle rustling.
