Wouri SDO prohibits wandering of cows on urban ways
By Charity Nginyu
Mboutou Benjamin, the Senior Divisional Officer of Wouri, Littoral region, issued a stern warning to populations, breeders, and livestock traders against the wandering of cows in the arteries of the city.
The decision followed an unfortunate incident, which resulted in the death of a motorcycle rider on April 22, 2024, as he attempted to avoid a herd in Yassa, Douala.
In response to this tragedy, the governor of the Littoral region, Samuel Dieudonné Ivaha swiftly took action by convening a meeting on April 25, 2024, bringing together municipal officials, administrative authorities, technical services from the Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries, and Animal Industries (Minepia), as well as herd owners.
In a communique, signed on April 29, 2024, the SDO outlined the stringent measures that must be adhered to by all concerned parties.
According to the directive, the movement of cows between the Dibamba bridge and the Bonendale Abattoir in the Douala 4th district must be conducted exclusively via trucks.
Failure to comply with this regulation, the SDO stressed will result in severe consequences.
“Any violators of this measure will face the immediate seizure, impoundment, and subsequent auctioning of their herds, without prejudice to legal proceedings,” partly stated the communique.
The decision to implement these measures comes amidst growing concerns over the safety hazards posed by the unrestricted movement of cattle herds within urban areas.
Not only does this practice create traffic congestion and disrupt daily activities, but it also poses significant risks to public safety, health, and sanitation.
