The Government has reiterated its commitment to protecting and preserving donkeys as an important resource for community development, particularly for rural populations that depend on the animals for transport, farming and other economic activities.
Speaking during the World Donkey Day celebrations held on May 8, 2026, at Mgusu area in Geita Region, Geita District Commissioner Hashim Komba said the event was aimed at raising public awareness about the significant contribution donkeys make to people’s livelihoods and local economies.
Mr Komba, who represented the Geita Regional Commissioner at the event, noted that the government continues to emphasize animal welfare rights as outlined in the Animal Welfare Act No. 19 of 2008.
He said the law guarantees animals the right to adequate food and water, freedom from cruelty, access to medical treatment, protection from fear and distress, and an environment that allows them to express natural behaviour.
He urged livestock keepers and communities to ensure proper care for donkeys in line with those principles in order to improve productivity and safeguard the future of the species for coming generations.
The district commissioner also said Tanzania remains committed to implementing the 2022 Dar es Salaam Declaration adopted by the African Union, which imposed a 15-year ban on donkey slaughter and the trade of donkey skins across the continent.
He further called on research institutions, including the Tanzania Livestock Research Institute (TALIRI), to collaborate with stakeholders in conducting more studies on donkey breeding and conservation in the country.
Mr Komba appealed to communities and animal welfare stakeholders to strengthen cooperation in protecting donkeys from practices that threaten their survival in Africa.
Meanwhile, veterinary doctor Charles Bukula from INADES Formation Tanzania said veterinary outreach services provided during the celebrations benefited a total of 783 donkeys in Geita Region.
He added that awareness programmes conducted in schools had reached 5,105 students and 80 teachers, providing education on donkey welfare and the importance of protecting the animals.
