NGOMA – The Rwanda Animal Resources Development Authority (RARDA) has stopped issuing permits for traders moving cattle to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The traders have instead been advised to slaughter the cows and export beef.

RARDA official, Dr. M. Justin Zimurinda told the New Times in an interview that the decision was reached in order to protect livestock farmers from losing other cattle by products.

"After slaughtering the cows, the remaining components may be used for producing Pet food, animal feeds, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and buttons,” he said.

We want to try exporting beef, in the long run the farmers and the country will earn money, he added.

However, the decision has been criticized by Nyagatare district officials and farmers, who say it is affecting farmers’ income.

According to sources a cow that used to be bought at Rwf200,000 now costs Rwf 120,000.

"The decision should be revised, it is not benefiting the local farmers,” said James Kamuzinzi, one of the farmers.
Zimurinda explained that cattle prices could have changed due to low demand of meat.

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