NYABIHU – Following the unearthing of multiple cases where local leaders from Nyabihu District allocated to themselves cows, the Mayor, Jean Damascene Ndagijimana has ordered the leaders to return the cows to the rightful owners within seven days.

Out of 734 cows delivered in Nyabihu district, 265 were given to people who did not deserve them.

"We are compiling a report. And, the recovery to give the cows to the real beneficiaries is starting this week,” Ndagijimana said.

Sources however allege that some of the illegal beneficiaries had already sold the cows they acquired with some going ahead and buying other breeds. 

Ndagijimana said he is aware of such allegations and that those who sold their cows and later on bought other breeds are still required to compensate the district.

In Bigogwe sector, 8 people who benefited from the programme have been listed as either cell or village leaders.

While in Rurembo sector at least all the 34 allocated cows where given to cell and village leaders. And, in Shyira sector, all beneficiaries are known to be local officials.The same applies to other sectors within the district.

"People have to understand that cows are for the poor not for local authorities or those with the means,” Ndagijimana said.

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