By Correspondent
Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, Onyoti Adigo Nyikec, has called for the imposition of taxes on livestock in the country, considering it a huge economic resource that could contribute to boosting government revenue if effectively regulated.
The minister’s proposal came during a hearing to discuss the national budget for 2025-2026, where he indicated that the country’s livestock population is estimated at approximately 36 million head, a figure he described as qualifying the sector to be one of the most important sources of national income.
He explained that the government already provides veterinary services, including vaccination, treatment, and protection, but the economic return from the sector remains limited. He emphasized the need to subject livestock to a regulated tax system that ensures its contribution to the public treasury.
The minister stated that the time has come to transform livestock farming from a traditional activity into an integrated commercial sector that supports the national economy and contributes to increasing the gross national product. He stressed the importance of developing policies and reforms that enhance the status of the livestock sector and maximize its potential benefits.