A recent claim circulating on Kenyans.co.ke suggesting that Kenyans may incur a Ksh. 500,000 fine for rearing farm animals without a license under the proposed Animal Production Professionals and Technicians Bill 2023 has been found to be misleading.The post by which has been trending online and was also shared by Suba North member of Parliament Millie Odhiambo on her Facebook page.
This report examines the details of the bill and clarifies the misinformation surrounding the purported penalties.
Verification of Claim
Mashinani Check conducted a thorough investigation, utilizing Google advanced search advanced search techniques, to validate the existence of the proposed animal production professionals and technicians bill 2023. The bill, as described, defines animal production, outlines qualifications for professionals and technicians, and details various services falling under the umbrella of animal production.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The bill specifies various animal production services emphasizing capacity development, research, genetic improvement, conservation of resources, advisory services, and technology dissemination. Notably, it does not explicitly state penalties for rearing farm animals without a license.
Misinformation Clarification
Contrary to the claim circulating online, the bill does not impose a Ksh. 500,000 fine or a 6-month jail term for engaging in unlicensed farm animal rearing. The penalties outlined in the bill are related to the provision of animal production services without proper registration.
Official Discrediting of the Claim
Jonathan Mueke, the Permanent Secretary for the State Department for Livestock Development, discredited the post through his verified X account, labeling it as fake news. This official response adds weight to the conclusion that the claim is misleading.
Conclusion
In light of the evidence presented, Mashinani Check concludes that the assertion made by Kenyans.co.ke regarding the alleged Ksh. 500,000 fine for unlicensed farm animal rearing under the Animal Production Professionals and Technicians Bill 2023 is misleading. It is crucial for the public to rely on accurate information and official statements to avoid the spread of misinformation.
This Fact check was completed by Oumah Phenice
The Grassroot Factfinder