**Proclamation No.

_____/2024**

**A PROCLAMATION TO PROVIDE FOR ANIMAL WELFARE AND RIGHTS**

Preamble

WHEREAS animals are sentient beings deserving humane treatment and care;

WHEREAS it is necessary to protect animals from cruelty, neglect, and exploitation while
ensuring their welfare and promoting public awareness about their rights;

WHEREAS Ethiopia seeks to align its legal framework with international best practices on animal
welfare and rights;

NOW, THEREFORE, in accordance with the powers vested in it by the House of Peoples’
Representatives, this Proclamation is hereby issued as follows

PART ONE: GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1. Definitions

1. Animal: means any living organism in the kingdom Animalia, including mammals, birds,
reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates, excluding humans.

2. Animal Welfare: refers to the responsibility to ensure an animal’s physical and mental well-
being, which includes freedom from hunger, thirst, discomfort, pain, injury, disease, fear, and
distress, and the ability to express natural behaviors.

3. Cruelty: refers to any act, omission, or negligence that causes unnecessary pain, suffering,
injury, or distress to an animal, including acts done intentionally or recklessly.

4. Companion Animal: means an animal kept for companionship, recreation, or emotional

support, including but not limited to dogs, cats, and birds.

5. Working Animal: refers to any animal used for labor, transportation, or assistance, such as
donkeys, horses, and service animals.
6. Veterinary Services: means services provided by qualified professionals for the prevention,
diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and injuries in animals.

7. Shelter: refers to any temporary or permanent facility established for the rescue,
rehabilitation, and care of abandoned or injured animals.

8. Euthanasia: means the act of ending the life of an animal in a humane manner, typically to
prevent undue suffering.

Article 2. Scope of Application

1. This Proclamation applies to all animals within the territory of Ethiopia, including
domesticated animals, wild animals, and animals used for commercial, scientific, or recreational
purposes.

2. Exceptions may apply to wildlife conservation activities regulated by existing laws, provided
that such activities align with the principles of animal welfare outlined herein.

3. The provisions of this Proclamation shall not apply to non-sentient organisms unless explicitly
stated in subsidiary regulations issued under this law.

4. This Proclamation shall take precedence over conflicting provisions in regional or local
animal-related legislation, unless otherwise specified.

PART TWO: FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS AND PROTECTION OF ANIMALS

Article 3. Recognition of Animal Sentience

1. All animals are recognized as sentient beings capable of experiencing pain, suffering, and
pleasure.

2. This recognition obligates every individual, institution, and government entity to act in a
manner that respects the welfare and dignity of animals.
Article 4. Right to Humane Treatment

1. Animals have the right to humane treatment, which includes:

a. Protection from acts of cruelty, abuse, neglect, and exploitation;

b. The provision of adequate food, clean water, and proper shelter;

c. Access to prompt veterinary care when sick, injured, or in pain.

2. Humane treatment extends to the handling, transportation, and slaughter of animals,

ensuring that their dignity and welfare are respected throughout their lives.

Article 5. Prohibition of Cruelty

1. Acts of cruelty prohibited under this Proclamation include:

a. Subjecting animals to physical abuse such as beating, mutilation, or unnecessary

confinement;

b. Denying animals access to basic needs such as food, water, or shelter;

c. Forcing animals into activities that cause extreme physical or mental distress;

d. Abandoning animals in a manner that endangers their survival;

e. Using animals for entertainment in ways that cause pain or fear, including but not limited
to animal fighting, unregulated performances, and races.

2. Violators of this Article shall face penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and confiscation of
animals, as determined by this Proclamation and its implementing regulations.

Article 6. Protection of Domesticated Animals

1. Owners and caretakers of domesticated animals shall ensure their well-being by providing:

a. Nutritious food and clean drinking water suitable to the species and age of the animal;
 b. Safe and clean housing conditions, allowing freedom of movement and protection from
extreme weather;

c. Veterinary care for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases or injuries.

2. Domesticated animals shall not be subjected to:

a. Overworking or carrying loads beyond their physical capacity;

b. Unnecessary or inhumane surgical or cosmetic procedures.

3. Breeding practices for domesticated animals must:

a. Prevent inbreeding or genetic manipulation causing harm to the animal;

b. Be registered and monitored by the relevant authority.

Article 7. Protection of Wildlife

1. Wildlife shall be protected from poaching, illegal trade, and activities that disrupt their
natural habitats.

2. Individuals or organizations wishing to capture or relocate wildlife must obtain a permit from
the appropriate authority and ensure that the activity aligns with conservation principles.

3. Wildlife corridors, national parks, and protected areas must be maintained to preserve
biodiversity and ensure species survival.

Article 8. Use of Animals for Research

1. The use of animals in research is permissible only when:

a. It is necessary for medical, veterinary, or scientific advancement;

b. Alternatives, such as simulations or in vitro methods, are unavailable.

2. Researchers must adhere to ethical guidelines, including:

a. Minimizing pain and distress;

 b. Providing post-research care for animals, including rehabilitation or euthanasia where
necessary.

3. Institutions conducting research must:

a. Establish animal ethics committees to approve and monitor research projects;

b. Submit periodic reports on compliance with this Article to the relevant authority.

Article 9. Prohibition of Animal Fighting

1. Animal fighting, including dog fights, cockfights, and similar events, is strictly prohibited.

2. Individuals involved in organizing, promoting, or participating in such events shall face:

a. Immediate confiscation of the animals involved;

b. Penalties including fines and imprisonment, as determined by the implementing

regulations.

3. Confiscated animals shall be rehabilitated and rehomed by shelters approved by the relevant
authority.

Article 10. Standards for Animal Care

1. The Ministry of Agriculture shall establish detailed guidelines for the care and treatment of
animals, addressing:

a. Minimum space, lighting, and ventilation requirements for housing;

b. Feeding schedules and nutritional standards;

c. Hygiene and disease prevention protocols.

2. Care standards shall vary based on the species, age, health, and purpose of the animal,
ensuring that the unique needs of each category are met.
3. Inspections shall be conducted periodically to ensure compliance with these standards, and
non-compliance shall result in penalties as prescribed in this Proclamation.

PART THREE: CARE AND MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

Article 11. Veterinary Services and Health Care

1. Veterinary services shall be made accessible to all regions, including rural and urban areas.

2. Veterinary professionals must:

a. Provide timely and effective medical care to animals;

b. Maintain detailed records of all medical treatments and procedures conducted;

c. Report any cases of disease outbreaks or suspected epidemics to the relevant authorities
immediately.

3. The government shall provide subsidies or financial support to individuals unable to afford
essential veterinary care for their animals.

4. Regular vaccination and deworming campaigns for domesticated and wild animals shall be
organized by the Ministry of Agriculture.

Article 12. Regulation of Animal Breeding

1. Animal breeding shall only be conducted by licensed entities to prevent overpopulation and
genetic defects.

2. Breeding programs must:

a. Ensure genetic diversity to reduce inbreeding risks;

 b. Avoid practices that result in hereditary conditions causing pain or discomfort to the
animal.

3. Breeders shall be subject to periodic inspections to ensure compliance with welfare

standards.

Article 13. Establishment and Operation of Animal Shelters

1. The Ministry of Agriculture shall oversee the establishment of animal shelters in

collaboration with non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

2. Animal shelters must:

a. Provide temporary or permanent housing for abandoned, injured, or stray animals;

b. Maintain clean and safe facilities;

c. Offer rehabilitation and adoption services.

3. Shelter operators shall be required to register and report regularly on the status of the
animals under their care.

Article 14. Feeding and Nutrition Standards

1. Animals must be provided with adequate and nutritious food that meets the dietary needs of
their species, age, and health condition.

2. The Ministry shall issue guidelines specifying:

a. Minimum daily caloric intake for common domesticated animals;

b. Acceptable and prohibited feed substances.

3. Malnutrition or starvation of animals shall constitute a violation of this Proclamation and be

punishable by law.
Article 15. Abandonment of Animals

1. No person shall abandon an animal in circumstances that:

a. Threaten its survival;

b. Expose it to injury, disease, or starvation.

2. Individuals who can no longer care for their animals must:

a. Transfer the animal to a recognized shelter or rehome it responsibly;

b. Notify local authorities if no alternatives are available.

3. Violators of this Article shall be subject to fines and other penalties outlined in this
Proclamation.

Article 16. Control of Stray Animal Populations

1. The government shall implement humane programs to manage stray animal populations,
including:

a. Sterilization campaigns (spaying and neutering);

b. Public awareness campaigns on responsible pet ownership;

c. Support for adoption and fostering initiatives.

2. The killing of stray animals is prohibited unless:

a. They pose an immediate threat to public safety;

b. Authorized under regulations for disease control.

Article 17. Transportation of Animals

1. Animals transported for any purpose must be handled humanely, ensuring:

a. Adequate ventilation and protection from extreme weather conditions;

 b. Sufficient space to allow natural posture and movement;

c. Regular intervals for rest, feeding, and hydration during long journeys.

2. Vehicles used for animal transportation must:

a. Be designed to minimize injury and stress to animals;

b. Undergo inspection and certification by the relevant authorities.

3. Violations of this Article shall result in the suspension of transport permits and additional
penalties.

Article 18. Slaughter of Animals

1. Slaughtering animals shall be conducted in a humane manner, ensuring:

a. Minimization of pain and distress during the process;

b. Use of pre-slaughter stunning where applicable.

2. Slaughterhouses must:

a. Adhere to hygiene and operational standards prescribed by the Ministry;

b. Be equipped with facilities to handle animals ethically and safely.

3. Ritual or traditional slaughter practices shall be permitted, provided they comply with animal
welfare principles.

Article 19. Protection of Working Animals

1. Working animals, such as donkeys, horses, and camels, shall not be subjected to:

a. Excessive workloads beyond their physical capacity;

b. Inhumane harnesses, equipment, or tools that cause pain or injury.

2. Owners must ensure that working animals receive:

 a. Adequate rest periods during work hours;

b. Proper nutrition and hydration;

c. Veterinary care for injuries or illnesses sustained during work.

3. Local governments shall develop programs to support working animal welfare in rural
communities.

Article 20. Use of Animals for Entertainment

1. The use of animals in entertainment, including circuses, films, and recreational events, shall
be strictly regulated.

2. Activities causing physical or psychological distress to animals, such as:

a. Animal fighting;

b. Forcing animals to perform unnatural acts;

are strictly prohibited.

3. Permits for animal-based entertainment shall only be issued if the event complies with:

a. Safety and welfare standards outlined by the Ministry;

b. Independent inspections verifying the treatment of animals.

Article 21. Prohibition of Animal Testing for Non-Essential Products

1. Animal testing for non-essential products, such as cosmetics, shall be prohibited.

2. Exceptions may be made for:

a. Medical research with no viable alternatives;

b. Cases where the absence of testing poses a significant public health risk.

3. The government shall promote alternative methods of testing that do not involve animals.
PART FOUR: ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES

Article 22. Appointment of Animal Welfare Inspectors

1. The Ministry of Agriculture shall appoint animal welfare inspectors empowered to:

a. Investigate complaints of animal cruelty or neglect;

b. Conduct unannounced inspections of facilities, farms, and shelters.

2. Inspectors shall have the authority to:

a. Seize animals subjected to cruelty or inhumane treatment;

b. Issue warnings or penalties for non-compliance.

3. Inspectors must operate in accordance with this Proclamation and respect the rights of
property owners.

Article 23. Reporting Mechanisms

1. The Ministry shall establish a centralized system for reporting violations of animal welfare
laws.

2. Reports may be submitted by:

a. Individuals who witness acts of cruelty or neglect;

b. Animal welfare organizations;

c. Inspectors conducting routine checks.

3. Whistleblowers shall be protected from retaliation under this Proclamation.

PART FOUR: ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES

Article 24. Administrative Structures for Enforcement

1. The Ministry of Agriculture shall establish a **Directorate of Animal Welfare** responsible
for:

a. Implementing and monitoring compliance with this Proclamation;

b. Developing policies, guidelines, and action plans for animal welfare;

c. Coordinating with regional governments, NGOs, and international organizations.

2. Regional and local offices shall be established to ensure effective enforcement and
community engagement.

3. The Directorate shall submit an annual report on the state of animal welfare to the House of
Peoples’ Representatives.

Article 25. Collaboration with Animal Welfare Organizations

1. The government shall encourage partnerships with animal welfare organizations for:

a. Public education and awareness campaigns;

b. Management of shelters and rescue operations;

c. Providing technical and financial support for animal welfare initiatives.

2. Registered organizations shall be granted access to government resources, including training

programs and funding opportunities.

Article 26. Licensing and Registration Requirements

1. Individuals or entities involved in activities related to animals, such as:

a. Breeding, sheltering, or trading animals;

b. Operating zoos, aquariums, or wildlife parks;

c. Using animals for research, transportation, or entertainment,

must obtain a license from the relevant authority.

2. Licenses shall only be granted upon compliance with:

a. Facility inspections;

b. Submission of welfare management plans;

c. Payment of applicable fees.

3. Licenses shall be subject to renewal every two years and may be revoked for violations of this
Proclamation.

Article 27. Penalties for Violations

1. Violations of this Proclamation shall result in penalties, including:

a. Fines ranging from ______ to ______ depending on the severity of the offense;

b. Imprisonment for up to ______ years for severe acts of cruelty or negligence;

c. Confiscation of animals involved in violations.

2. Repeat offenders shall face enhanced penalties, including permanent bans from owning
animals.

3. The Ministry shall establish a public registry of individuals and entities convicted of animal
welfare violations.

Article 28. Seizure and Rehabilitation of Abused Animals

1. Animals subjected to cruelty, neglect, or exploitation shall be:

a. Immediately seized by inspectors or law enforcement authorities;

b. Transferred to approved shelters or rehabilitation centers.

2. Rehabilitation centers must provide medical care, psychological support, and rehoming
services for rescued animals.

3. The cost of care and rehabilitation shall be recovered from the violator.
Article 29. Appeals and Dispute Resolution

1. Individuals or entities subject to penalties under this Proclamation may file an appeal with
the Animal Welfare Directorate within 30 days of receiving the penalty notice.

2. The Directorate shall establish an independent **Animal Welfare Tribunal** to:

a. Hear appeals and disputes related to enforcement actions;

b. Issue binding decisions within 60 days of receiving complaints.

3. Decisions of the Tribunal may be further appealed to the Federal High Court.

PART FIVE: EDUCATION, AWARENESS, AND RESEARCH

Article 30. Animal Welfare Education Programs

1. Animal welfare shall be incorporated into the national curriculum at all educational levels,
focusing on:

a. The ethical treatment of animals;

b. The ecological and economic importance of animals;

c. Career opportunities in veterinary and animal welfare fields.

2. Universities and colleges shall be encouraged to offer specialized courses in animal law,
veterinary medicine, and wildlife conservation.

Article 31. Public Awareness Campaigns

1. The government shall conduct nationwide campaigns to:

a. Promote responsible pet ownership;

b. Educate the public on the negative impacts of cruelty and neglect;

c. Highlight the legal obligations of animal owners.

2. Media outlets shall be encouraged to broadcast programs promoting animal welfare and
rights.

Article 32. Promotion of Ethical Research Practices

1. Research institutions shall be incentivized to adopt alternative methods that do not involve
animal testing.

2. Grants and funding opportunities shall be made available for researchers developing non-
animal-based testing methods.

Article 33. Community Engagement

1. Local governments shall organize community workshops on:

a. Livestock management and welfare;

b. The benefits of spaying and neutering programs;

c. The humane handling of working animals.

2. Community leaders shall be trained to act as liaisons between local authorities and the public
for reporting animal welfare concerns.

PART SIX: SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR WILDLIFE AND HABITAT PROTECTION

Article 34. Preservation of Natural Habitats

1. The government shall identify and protect critical habitats for wildlife, ensuring:

a. Prevention of deforestation and illegal land use;

b. Restoration of degraded ecosystems.

2. Activities threatening natural habitats, such as mining and unregulated tourism, shall be
strictly regulated.

Article 35. Conservation of Endangered Species

1. Endangered species listed under Ethiopian law and international treaties shall be given
special protection, including:

a. Bans on hunting, capturing, or trading such species;

b. Breeding programs aimed at population recovery.

2. Violators shall face enhanced penalties, including imprisonment for up to ______ years.

Article 36. Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation

1. Injured, orphaned, or displaced wildlife shall be cared for in designated rehabilitation

centers.

2. Such centers must be staffed by trained professionals and operate under permits issued by
the Ministry.

PART SEVEN: FUNDING AND IMPLEMENTATION

Article 37. Establishment of an Animal Welfare Fund

1. An **Animal Welfare Fund** shall be created to finance programs under this Proclamation,
sourced from:

a. Government allocations;

b. Fines and penalties collected under this law;

c. Donations from individuals, organizations, and international bodies.

Article 38. Allocation of Resources

1. Funds collected shall be allocated to:

a. Animal shelters and rehabilitation centers;

b. Public awareness and education campaigns;

c. Veterinary service expansion in underserved areas.

Article 39. Periodic Review of Regulations

1. The Ministry shall review and update regulations under this Proclamation every five years to
reflect:

a. Scientific advancements;

b. Socioeconomic changes;

c. International best practices.

PART EIGHT: MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

Article 40. Transitional Provisions

1. Individuals or entities currently engaged in activities requiring licenses under this

Proclamation shall:

a. Register with the relevant authority within six months of its enactment;

b. Comply with all applicable requirements within one year.

Article 41. Offenses by Organizations

1. Where an organization is found guilty of violating this Proclamation, penalties shall be

imposed on:

a. The organization itself;

b. Responsible officers who authorized or failed to prevent the violation.

Article 42. Development of Subsidiary Legislation

1. The Ministry of Agriculture shall, within one year of the enactment of this Proclamation, issue
subsidiary legislation on:

a. Minimum standards for animal housing, feeding, and care;

 b. Licensing requirements for businesses involved in animal trade or services;

c. Protocols for veterinary practices and animal transportation.

2. These regulations shall be reviewed every five years to ensure alignment with international
best practices.

Article 43. Coordination with Regional Laws

1. Regional governments shall harmonize their laws and regulations with this Proclamation
within two years.

2. The federal government shall provide technical and financial support to regions for the
development of localized animal welfare programs.

3. Any conflicting regional laws shall be repealed or amended to comply with this Proclamation.

Article 44. Timeframes for Implementation

1. The following timeframes shall apply:

a. Establishment of the Directorate of Animal Welfare: six months from enactment;

b. Rollout of public awareness campaigns: within one year;

c. Full enforcement of licensing and registration requirements: within two years.

2. Extensions to these timeframes may only be granted by the Ministry upon submission of
valid justification.

Article 45. Monitoring and Evaluation

1. The Ministry of Agriculture shall establish a system for monitoring and evaluating the
implementation of this Proclamation, including:

a. Regular inspections of animal facilities;

b. Performance audits of animal welfare programs.

2. The findings of these evaluations shall be published annually and made accessible to the
public.

Article 46. Capacity-Building Programs

1. The government shall invest in capacity-building programs for individuals and organizations
involved in animal welfare, including:

a. Training for veterinary professionals and inspectors;

b. Workshops for farmers and livestock owners on humane practices;

c. Courses for law enforcement officers on enforcing animal welfare laws.

2. Partnerships with international organizations shall be encouraged to facilitate knowledge

exchange and funding.

Article 47. Research and Innovation in Animal Welfare

1. The government shall allocate funding for research on:

a. Alternative methods to replace animal testing in research;

b. Strategies to improve the health and productivity of livestock through humane practices;

c. Innovations in animal shelter design and management.

2. Research findings shall inform the periodic review of this Proclamation and its subsidiary
regulations.

Article 48. International Cooperation

1. Ethiopia shall actively participate in international agreements, conventions, and partnerships

on animal welfare, including:

a. The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) standards;

b. Relevant provisions under the Convention on Biological Diversity.

2. The government shall seek technical and financial assistance from international bodies to
enhance animal welfare standards in the country.

Article 49. Public Participation and Feedback Mechanisms

1. Citizens and civil society organizations shall have the right to participate in the development
and review of animal welfare policies.

2. The Ministry of Agriculture shall establish feedback mechanisms, such as:

a. Public forums and consultations;

b. Online platforms for submitting complaints and suggestions.

Article 50. Commencement and Repeal

1. This Proclamation shall enter into force on the date of its publication in the Federal Negarit
Gazette.

2. Any provisions of existing laws inconsistent with this Proclamation shall be repealed.