President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda has recently signed three Bills into law, addressing various aspects of governance and regulation. One of these laws introduces strict penalties for veterinary practitioners, including a seven-year jail sentence or a fine of sh10 million, or both, for those convicted under it.
The three Bills, namely the Veterinary Practitioners’ Act of 2023, the National Records and Archives (Amendment) Act of 2024, and the Animal Feeds Act of 2024, were passed by Parliament and subsequently signed into law by the President on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, according to a statement from the Presidential Press Unit (PPU).
The Veterinary Practitioners’ Act, enacted on August 30, 2023, imposes severe consequences for veterinary practitioners found guilty of professional misconduct or continuing to practice after their licenses have been revoked. The law aims to deter malpractice by imposing hefty fines and lengthy prison sentences.
Additionally, the law requires all private veterinary practitioners to register with the Veterinary Council and obtain licenses. Public practitioners, however, are exempted from this requirement.
The National Records and Archives (Amendment) Act, passed on February 27, 2024, facilitates the dissolution of the National Records and Archives Agency, transferring its functions to the Ministry of Public Service. This move aligns with the government’s policy for rationalizing agencies and reducing public expenditure, which was adopted by Cabinet on February 22, 2021.
President Museveni emphasized the importance of rationalizing government agencies, stating that it would lead to significant annual savings for the government, estimated at sh1 trillion.
Lastly, the Animal Feeds Act, enacted on February 20, 2024, establishes a regulatory committee responsible for overseeing the production, storage, importation, exportation, and marketing of animal feeds. The law requires individuals or entities involved in these activities to obtain licenses or permits, ensuring compliance with safety standards and sanitation requirements.
The legislation also prohibits the use of contaminants in animal feeds and mandates safety measures for their transportation. Ministerial guidelines will be provided regarding transportation procedures following the enactment of the law.
According to the President’s Office, these new laws signify the government’s commitment to enhancing regulation, governance, and public safety across various sectors, addressing key issues and promoting accountability within the country.
