PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema’s pronouncement that livestock theft will now be a non-bailable offence marks a bold and progressive step towards protecting farmers’ investments.
The development will ensure food security, and restore integrity in Zambia’s agricultural sector.
The decision, announced during the 119th Zambia National Farmers Union (ZNFU) Annual Congress at Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka, is more than just a legal reform, but also a strategic economic intervention that recognises the vital role livestock plays in sustaining livelihoods and driving rural development. 
The head of State reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to good governance, accountability, and the rule of law, saying that the tightening of livestock theft laws forms part of a broader national strategy to safeguard the interests of farmers and promote agricultural productivity.
“Cases of stock theft will now be tried under the Financial and Economic Crimes Court to ensure swift justice within five months,” President Hichilema said, signalling a no-nonsense approach to criminal activities that undermine the agricultural economy.
This decisive move has been welcomed by many stakeholders in the farming community who have for years cried foul over rampant livestock theft that has impoverished rural households and discouraged investment in animal husbandry.
Livestock: The Backbone of Rural Livelihoods
In Zambia, as in many parts of Africa, livestock is not just a source of income—it is a store of wealth, a social safety net, and a cultural symbol of prosperity.
In rural provinces such as Southern, Western, and Eastern, cattle play an indispensable role in ploughing fields, providing manure, milk, and meat, as well as supporting small-scale trade.
However, increasing cases of livestock thefts have not only destabilised rural economies but also eroded social trust.
Families have lost their only source of livelihood overnight, forcing some to abandon farming altogether.
By making livestock theft a non-bailable offence, the government is restoring hope to these communities, assuring them that justice will be swift and effective.
Learning from Kenya: Protecting the Herd, Protecting the People
Kenya’s experience offers valuable lessons. In pastoralist regions such as Turkana, Samburu, and Baringo, cattle are at the centre of social and economic life.
The Kenyan government has long recognised that cattle rustling and livestock theft are not just criminal issues—they are national security and economic concerns.
To combat these challenges, Kenya introduced stringent anti-stock theft laws, established special police units, and implemented community-based livestock tracking systems.
The result has improved stability in rural areas and increased confidence among livestock farmers.
Cattle significantly contributes to Kenya’s agricultural GDP, accounting for over 12 percent of total agricultural output.
The livestock industry employs millions of Kenyans directly and indirectly, underpinning food security and rural resilience.
Zambia can learn from this model. By aligning livestock protection with broader economic planning, President Hichilema’s policy can position Zambia to emulate Kenya’s progress, transforming the livestock sub-sector into a reliable pillar of national development.
Livestock as a Driver of National Growth
Globally, the economic importance of livestock cannot be overstated. In the United States, cattle ranching is a cornerstone of the agricultural economy, contributing over US $70 billion annually to the GDP.
The beef industry alone employs more than 700,000 people, from ranchers to processors and retailers.
Beyond its economic footprint, cattle ranching has also spurred advancements in biotechnology, feed efficiency, and sustainable farming practices.
By protecting livestock and encouraging investment in animal production, Zambia stands to unlock similar benefits on a smaller but meaningful scale.
The UPND government’s stance, therefore, aligns with international best practices where livestock is treated as a critical national asset.
Tightening Systems for Accountability and Equity
President Hichilema also revealed that 208,000 illegal farmers were removed from the e-voucher system, calling it a significant step in cleaning up agricultural corruption and ensuring that public funds benefit genuine beneficiaries.
“Those who misused public funds will be brought to justice, regardless of political or ethnic affiliation,” the head of State warned.
This kind of firmness is essential for restoring public confidence in government programmes.
For too long, loopholes in agricultural support systems have benefited undeserving individuals at the expense of hardworking farmers. By closing these gaps, the UPND administration is creating a more equitable and efficient agricultural landscape.
A Policy Rooted in Justice and Economic Rationality
Critics may argue that making livestock theft non-bailable is too harsh a piece of legislation, but such a stance overlooks the devastating impact of the crime.
For a smallholder farmer, the theft of a cow or two can mean the loss of an entire year’s income. It can push families into poverty, disrupt children’s education, and strain community relations.
In this light, the government’s move is not merely punitive. It is protective justice. It sends a clear message that Zambia values its farmers, respects their toil, and will defend their property.
The inclusion of livestock theft cases under the Financial and Economic Crimes Court further demonstrates that the state recognises livestock as an economic resource central to the country’s growth.
Swift prosecution within five months will deter would-be offenders and restore order in affected communities.
Towards a Secure and Prosperous Agricultural Sector
President Hichilema’s announcement fits squarely within his broader vision of agricultural transformation. By tightening livestock laws, rooting out corruption in subsidy systems, and ensuring efficient justice delivery, his administration is strengthening the foundations of Zambia’s food security and rural economy.
If implemented effectively, these reforms will encourage more Zambians—especially youth—to venture into livestock farming with confidence.
They will also attract private investment into ranching, veterinary services, and livestock trade, all of which are crucial to diversifying Zambia’s economy beyond dependence on mining.
President Hichilema’s decision to make livestock theft a non-bailable offence is both timely and visionary. It demonstrates a government attuned to the realities of rural life and determined to protect its citizens’ livelihoods.
By learning from successful models in Kenya and recognising the immense economic potential of livestock as seen in countries like the United States, Zambia is charting a path toward sustainable agricultural growth.
In protecting the cattle, the nation protects its people—and in protecting its farmers, Zambia protects its future.
“Our farmers are the backbone of our nation. Protecting their livestock is protecting Zambia’s prosperity,” President Hichilema’s words resonate not just as policy, but as a promise of renewal and justice.
