Fisheries and Livestock

DISTRICT FISHERIES AND LIVESTOCK COORDINATOR

DEPARTMENT OF FISHERIES, LIVESTOCK AND VETERINARY SERVICES

INTRODUCTION

The Department of Fisheries Livestock and Veterinary services is responsible for the implementation of the fisheries and livestock development programmes as well as provision of veterinary services. It shall also monitor the implementation of the national aquaculture programmes.

FUNCTIONS

The Department performs the following functions:

• Provide veterinary services in the district;
• Facilitate safe trade in animals and animal products;
• Promote disease-free compartments and conform to set standards;
• Implement livestock policy and legislation in order to promote livestock production and productivity;
• Promote and implement Animal Welfare and Livestock Production programmes in order to enhance productivity of the livestock rearing systems;
• Manage rangelands and livestock water sources in order to ensure adequate availability of feed and water for livestock;
• Implement standards for the grading of livestock, livestock products and by-products in order to ensure adherence to quality requirements;
• Conserve, manage and develop fishery resources and waters in a sustainable manner in order to improve fish stocks; and
• Collaborate with relevant stakeholders on issues relating to food safety.

FUNCTIONS THAT HAVE BEEN DEVOLVED 

All the functions under Department of Fisheries Livestock and Veterinary services at district level have been devolved to the local authority namely:

• Veterinary Services: This section provides veterinary services, which include disease surveillance, vaccination programs, and implementing the electronic Animal Identification and Traceability System.
• Livestock Development: This section focuses on improving livestock development through initiatives that enhance production and productivity, such as providing support for farmers.
• Fisheries and Aquaculture: This section works on developing and supporting both fisheries and aquaculture, aiming to increase fish production through programs like the production of fingerlings.
• Marketing: This section deals with the marketing aspects of the fisheries and livestock sectors, working to connect farmers to markets and ensure that products are sold effectively.

KEY ACTIVITIES AND INITIATIVES

• Disease Control: The department is actively involved in disease surveillance and control to protect animal health and prevent the spread of diseases that could threaten livestock and food security.
• Data Collection: District officers play a crucial role in collecting data, such as through the use of the electronic DHIS2 system, to improve reporting and inform decision-making.
• Support for Farmers: Programs are in place to support farmers, such as the Enhanced Smallholder Livestock Investment Programme (E-SLIP), which provides matching grants to help farmers expand their businesses.
• Enforcement of Regulations: District-level departments work to enforce regulations, such as those related to animal health laws and livestock movement permits, to protect animal health and food security.
• Collaboration: The local departments collaborate with other stakeholders, including farmers and community members, to successfully implement programs and achieve the ministry’s objectives.