Proposed “Cat Tax” stirs controversy among Nairobi residents
Nairobi’s feline lovers are up in arms over a proposed regulation requiring cat owners to register their pets, seen by many as a potential “cat tax.” The Nairobi City County’s proposal mandates an annual license fee of 200 Kenyan shillings ($1.50) per cat, along with proof of rabies vaccination.
This initiative, part of the city’s Animal Control and Welfare Bill, aims to improve cat welfare but has met resistance from residents who view it as another revenue-raising measure by the government.
Cat owners, or “purrents,” would also be responsible for their pets’ behavior, ensuring they do not disturb the peace or roam freely while in heat.
The bill, which is seen as an effort to address the city’s stray and feral cat population, has raised concerns about its enforceability and potential unintended consequences.
Critics, including prominent cat enthusiast Naomi Mutua, argue that the county should have consulted with cat owners and animal welfare organizations before drafting the law.
Mutua, who runs a Facebook group of 25,000 cat lovers, supports mandatory rabies vaccinations but questions the practical implementation of the bill.
She emphasizes the need to improve overall standards of animal care.
The Kenya Society for the Protection and Care of Animals (KSPCA) acknowledges the city’s significant animal welfare issues but doubts that licensing is the solution.
KSPCA head Emma Ngugi fears the law might discourage people from claiming ownership of cats, potentially increasing the number of abandoned animals.
Ngugi advocates for affordable veterinary services and mass sterilization campaigns as more effective measures.
A public consultation on the proposed bill is scheduled to begin this Friday, allowing city residents to share their views.
The feedback may lead to amendments before the county assembly considers the legislation.
As debates continue, the bill has sparked widespread discussion and even inspired poetry among Nairobi’s residents, highlighting the passionate responses the proposal has elicited.
Source : bbc.com
