Meheba (Zambia) : increase in thefts of domestic livestock and controversy over administrative measures

The Meheba refugee camp in Zambia is facing an increase in thefts of domestic livestock. Pigs and goats are particularly targeted by bandits operating at night, a phenomenon that is fueling tensions among residents.

INFO SOS Médias Burundi

Several pigs have been stolen in the last two weeks, especially in the area called “Block D” and on roads 34, 36 and 38. These animals are taken away while they are locked up near their owners’ homes, reports a Burundian refugee on condition of anonymity.

A contested administrative measure

This wave of thefts comes in an already tense context.

A new measure imposed by the camp administration requires that owners of pigs, goats, cows and sheep keep their animals locked up. The stated objective : to protect agricultural fields and limit conflicts.

According to a statement signed by the administration and posted in the camp, “any animal found wandering will be captured, and its owner will have to pay a fine of more than 1,500 Zambia kwachas (54 USD)”.

“We want to protect the fields to ensure the safety of people and their property, while preventing potential conflicts,” explained an administration official.

However, this directive has sparked outrage among refugees, particularly because it coincides with the dry season, when herds are usually allowed to graze freely.

Refugees denounce injustice

Camp residents denounce an unfair and disproportionate decision.

“The fine is far more than the value of a single animal. This measure discourages livestock breeding initiatives, which are crucial in a camp where famine is threatening,” they lament.

Refugees are calling for the measure to be suspended and for a more flexible approach.

“If an animal damages the fields, its owner must be held responsible, but this can be settled amicably or through local justice in the event of disagreement. Such an authoritarian measure will not have the desired effects,” they say.

An administrative response expected

Faced with these demands, some local leaders have contacted the camp administration. However, no official response has yet been provided.

The Meheba camp currently hosts more than 27,000 refugees, including approximately 3,000 Burundians. The situation therefore remains tense, between the increase in thefts and a livestock breeding policy deemed too restrictive by some residents.

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Refugees made up of women for the most part and their children in front of a health facility at Meheba (SOS Médias Burundi)