ASPA resorts to donkey identification tags to curb animal smuggling
The Arusha Society for the Protection of Animals is advocating for mandatory ear tagging of donkeys to combat illegal smuggling. Officials argue that tagging will allow for better tracking and ensure donkeys receive the same veterinary care as other livestock.
Why it matters
Donkey smuggling is a growing issue that threatens animal welfare and local agricultural economies in East Africa.
ARUSHA: THE Arusha Society for the Protection of Animals (ASPA) has said the identification of donkeys through ear tags, as is done with other livestock, will help reduce the growing challenge of illegal transportation and smuggling of the animals.
Speaking during a media’s engagement held in Arusha on the growing challenge of donkey smuggling, ASPA Director Livingstone Masija said identifying donkeys through ear tags would enable owners and authorities to track the animals and help curb illegal trade and smuggling.
“Regarding donkey identification, the government has already issued a call and directive to various people working in villages, districts and other areas on the need to tag animals for identification. Donkeys should also be identified like other animals and identification should not only apply to sheep, goats and cattle because donkeys are also important in our communities,” he said.
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