WHEREAS, taking into consideration that the country’s livestock resource is a source of draft power for agriculture and a source of food, raw materials for industries, foreign exchange, and is generally considered as one of the important assets for the economic growth of the country;

WHEREAS, it has become decisive to primarily prevent and control animal diseases in order to maximize the benefits to be derived from this extensive livestock resource;

WHEREAS, the control of animal diseases requires the establishment of a system to control the movement of animals, animal products, and by-products within, into, and out of the country;

WHEREAS, it has become necessary, in general, to promote the export trade of animals, animal products, and by-products by controlling animal diseases and by observing international agreements on animal health;

NOW, THEREFORE, in accordance with Article 55(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, it is hereby proclaimed as follows: