The Veterinary Act

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CHAPTER 319
THE VETERINARY ACT
[PRINCIPAL LEGISLATION]
Arrangement of Sections
Section Title
part i
PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS
1. Short title.
2. Interpretation.
part ii
ESTABLISHMENT OF COUNCIL
3. Establishment of Council.
4. Composition of Council.
5. Functions and powers of Council.
6. Establishment of committees.
7. Secretariat of Council.
8. Appointment of Registrar and Deputy Registrar.
9. Functions of Registrar and Deputy Registrar.
10. Appointment and functions of Assistant Registrar.
11. Appointment, duties and powers of inspectors.
12. Funds and resources of Council.
13. Remuneration.
14. Protection of members of Council.
part iii
REGISTRATION OF VETERINARIANS AND
VETERINARY SPECIALISTS
15. Qualifications for registration of veterinarian or veterinary specialist.
16. Disqualification for registration.
17. Procedure for registration.
18. Certificate of registration.
19. Privileges and use of titles.
20. Registration for veterinarians or veterinary specialist qualified
outside Tanzania.

Certificate of registration.
19. Privileges and use of titles.
20. Registration for veterinarians or veterinary specialist qualified
outside Tanzania.

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THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
21. Temporary registration. 22. Register for veterinarians, veterinary specialists. 23. Retention in Register. 24. Publication of veterinarians and veterinary specialists. 25. Cancellation or suspension of certificates. 26. Procedure for cancellation or suspension. 27. Re-registration of veterinarians or veterinary specialists. part iv
ENROLMENT OF PARAPROFESSIONALS AND ENLISTMENT OF
PARAPROFESSIONAL ASSISTANTS
28. Requirement for enrolment and enlistment. 29. Qualification for enrolment and enlistment. 30. Procedure for enrolment or enlistment. 31. Issuance of certificate of enrolment or enlistment. 32. Restriction in veterinary practice. 33. Maintenance of rolls and lists. 34. Cancellation or suspension of certificates of enrolment or enlistment. 35. Re- enrolment and re-enlistment. 36. Publication of paraprofessional and paraprofessional assistants. 37. Retention in roll or list. part v
REGISTRATION OF VETERINARY PRACTICE FACILITIES
38. Registration of veterinary practice facilities. 39.

sistants. 37. Retention in roll or list. part v
REGISTRATION OF VETERINARY PRACTICE FACILITIES
38. Registration of veterinary practice facilities. 39.

Procedure for registration. 40. Register of veterinary practice facilities. 41. Cancellation of certificate of registration. part vi
GENERAL PROVISIONS ON VETERINARY PRACTICE AND COMPLAINTS
42. Practice, ethics and conduct. 43. Prohibition of practice by unauthorised person. 44. Exemptions. 45. Investigations of complaints. 46. Decision of Council.

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THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
part vii
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
47. Appeals.
48. Offences related to unauthorised practice.
49. Offences related to professional misconduct.
50. Offences related to fraud.
51. General penalty.
52. Repeal and transition.
53. Power to make regulations.
SCHEDULE

ted to professional misconduct.
50. Offences related to fraud.
51. General penalty.
52. Repeal and transition.
53. Power to make regulations.
SCHEDULE

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PART I
PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS
1. This Act may be cited as the Veterinary Act. 2. In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires-
“animal” means any vertebrate or invertebrate other than a
human being;
“Assistant Registrar” means a member of the secretariat
appointed to be Assistant Registrar under section 10;
“Association” means the Tanzania Veterinary Association or
any association responsible for the welfare of veterinarians,
paraprofessional and paraprofessional assistants;
“Chairman” means the Chairman of the Council;
“committees” means the committees established by the
Council under section 6;
“Council” means the Veterinary Council of Tanzania
established under section 3;
“Deputy Registrar” means the Deputy Registrar of the
Council appointed under section 8;
“Director” means the Director responsible for veterinary
services in the Ministry responsible for livestock;
Short title
Interpretation
Act No. 1 of 2022 s.

tor” means the Director responsible for veterinary
services in the Ministry responsible for livestock;
Short title
Interpretation
Act No. 1 of 2022 s.

72
CHAPTER 319
THE VETERINARY ACT
An Act to provide for the registration of veterinarians, enrolment or
enlistment of Paraprofessional and Paraprofessional Assistants, and
for the establishment of the Veterinary Council and for other matters
incidental and connected thereto. [1st May, 2004]
[GN. No. 159 of 2004]
Acts Nos. 16 of 2003
4 of 2016
1 of 2022

erinary Council and for other matters
incidental and connected thereto. [1st May, 2004]
[GN. No. 159 of 2004]
Acts Nos. 16 of 2003
4 of 2016
1 of 2022

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.23
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E.

of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.23
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E.

2023]
“enlisted” means listed in the List as a paraprofessional
assistant;
“enrolled” means enrolled in the Roll as a paraprofessional;
“facility” includes any established premise, structure, retail
veterinary outlet or ambulatory service where any animal
is attended;
“inspector” means a person appointed to be an inspector
under section 11;
“List” means a List of Paraprofessional Assistants kept by the
Registrar in accordance with this Act;
“livestock” means any domesticated animal and includes
cattle, water buffalo, sheep, goats, pigs, dogs, cats,
donkeys, horses, camels, rabbits, guinea pigs and poultry;
“member” means a member of the Council, or committee
established under this Act;
“Minister” means the Minister responsible for livestock;
“paraprofessional” means any person enrolled as
paraprofessional under this Act;
“paraprofessional assistant” means any person enlisted as
paraprofessional assistant under this Act;
“practice” means in case of veterinary medicine, the
diagnoses, prognoses, treatment, administering to,
prescribing for, operations on, manipulations of
appliances or any apparatus or appliance for any disease,
pain, deformity, defect, injury, wound or physical or
mental condition of any animal or for the prevention of,
or to test for the presence of any disease of any animal
and includes acts related to statutory or compliance
functions, and of persons representing themselves as
engaged in the practice of veterinary medicine or uses
of any words, letters or titles in such connection and
under such circumstances as to induce the belief that
the person using them is engaged in the practice of
veterinary medicine in any of its branches as defined by
this Act;

es as to induce the belief that
the person using them is engaged in the practice of
veterinary medicine in any of its branches as defined by
this Act;

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.24
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E.

of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.24
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E.

2023]
“private practice” means any practice for hire, gain, fee,
compensation or reward received, promised, offered,
expected, or accepted, directly or indirectly, by the
person rendering the service from the person requesting
or receiving the service for an animal;
“Register” means a register for registered veterinarians and
veterinary specialists and includes a register for veterinary
practice facilities;
“Registrar” means the Registrar of the Council appointed
under section 8 of this Act;
“Roll” means a Roll of enrolment of Paraprofessionals kept
by the Registrar in accordance with this Act;
“veterinarian” means any person who has been awarded a
degree in veterinary medicine or its equivalent from a
veterinary institution recognised by the Council;
“veterinary drugs” means drugs intended for use in the
diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment or prevention of
diseases in animals;
“veterinary outlets” means a shop where veterinary medicinal
drugs are prepared and sold; and
“veterinary specialist” means a veterinarian who has
received a postgraduate or specialised qualifications and
with exceptionally high level of skill that is well above
that of a practitioner in the discipline of specialisation.

r specialised qualifications and
with exceptionally high level of skill that is well above
that of a practitioner in the discipline of specialisation.

PART II
ESTABLISHMENT OF THE COUNCIL
3.–(1) There is hereby established a Council to be known as
the Veterinary Council of Tanzania. (2) The Council shall be a body corporate and shall-
(a) have perpetual succession and a common seal;
(b) in its corporate name be capable of purchase, acquire,
transfer and lease movable or immovable property;
(c) sue and be sued and have all the rights and privileges of
a natural person;
Establishment of
Council

sfer and lease movable or immovable property;
(c) sue and be sued and have all the rights and privileges of
a natural person;
Establishment of
Council

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.25
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
(d) collect, spend and invest funds;
(e) enter into contracts and agreements; and
(f) have power to borrow such sums as it may require for
its purpose. 4.–(1) The Schedule to this Act shall have effect as to
appointment of members of the Council, constitution,
procedures and other matters relating to the Council. (2) The Minister may on the advice of the Council and by
an order published in the Gazette, amend, vary or replace all or
any of the provisions of the Schedule. 5.–(1) The Council shall be the sole authority for-
(a) effecting registration, enrolment and enlistment under
this Act; and
(b) monitoring the performance of veterinarians, veterinary
specialists, paraprofessionals and paraprofessional
assistants.

stment under
this Act; and
(b) monitoring the performance of veterinarians, veterinary
specialists, paraprofessionals and paraprofessional
assistants.

(2) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1),
the functions of the Council shall include to-
(a) register veterinarians, veterinary specialists and
veterinary practice facilities, enroll paraprofessionals
and enlist paraprofessional assistants pursuant to this
Act;
(b) advise and make recommendations to the Minister on
any matters relating to veterinary practice;
(c) regulate veterinary practice;
(d) recognise qualifications, training facilities, training
institutions and colleges;
(e) collaborate with other relevant institutions or bodies
in accrediting courses of training curriculum which
provide qualification for registrations of veterinarians,
veterinary specialists, enrolment of paraprofessional
and enlistment of paraprofessional assistants;
(f) determine the minimum standards for-
(i) veterinary practice facilities under this Act;
Composition of
Council
Functions and
powers of Council

ts;
(f) determine the minimum standards for-
(i) veterinary practice facilities under this Act;
Composition of
Council
Functions and
powers of Council

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.26
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E.

of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.26
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E.

2023]
(ii) conduct scope of practice activities by veterinarians,
veterinary specialists, paraprofessionals and
paraprofessional assistants under this Act; and
(iii) training proficiency required for degree, diploma,
certificates or any other award entitling the holders
thereof to practice;
(g) exercise effective disciplinary control over the
professional ethics and conduct of veterinary practice;
(h) promote and encourage educational advancement with
regard to the practice of the veterinary profession;
(i) provide information and education as regards to the
veterinary profession;
(j) facilitate collaborations among persons and
organisations relating to veterinary practice in order
to enhance dignity and integrity of the veterinary
profession;
(k) initiate and provide advice to the body responsible for
regulating the use of veterinary pharmaceutical drugs
and poisons;
(l) arrange and conduct qualifying examinations to
establish competence in veterinary education and
practice; and
(m) perform such other functions as may be required under
this Act.

ing examinations to
establish competence in veterinary education and
practice; and
(m) perform such other functions as may be required under
this Act.

6.–(1) The Council may, for the purpose of performing its
functions, establish such number of committees to perform
specific functions as may be determined by the Council. (2) The committees of the Council to be established under
subsection (1) shall include but not limited to-
(a) Registration and Examination Committee;
(b) Disciplinary Committee;
(c) Practice and Facilities Monitoring Committee; and
(d) Pharmaceuticals and Biologicals Advisory Committee. (3) Each Committee established by the Council under this
section shall be composed of a Chairman and not more than
five other members to be appointed by the Council. Establishment of
committees

il under this
section shall be composed of a Chairman and not more than
five other members to be appointed by the Council. Establishment of
committees

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THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
(4) The Council shall, by guidelines, determine terms
and conditions for committees and regulate procedures to
be observed by the committees in the performance of their
respective functions. 7.–(1) There shall be a Secretariat of the Council which shall
consist of the Registrar, Deputy Registrar, Assistant Registrars,
technical personnel and such other staff as may be determined
by the Council. (2) Members of the Secretariat and other staff of the Council
shall be employees of the Government appointed to perform
the functions of the Council. (3) The Council may co-opt members from the private
practice facility to perform the functions of the Council under
this section. 8. The Minister shall, after consultation with the Council,
appoint from amongst veterinarians in the public service, the
Registrar and Deputy Registrar of the Council.

all, after consultation with the Council,
appoint from amongst veterinarians in the public service, the
Registrar and Deputy Registrar of the Council.

9.–(1) The Registrar shall-
(a) be the Secretary to the Council and Head of the
Secretariat;
(b) keep and maintain-
(i) registers in respect of veterinarians, veterinary
specialists and veterinary practice facilities;
(ii) rolls in respect of paraprofessionals; and
(iii) lists in respect of paraprofessional assistants, as
may be directed by the Council;
(c) be responsible to the Council for the administration
and management of its affairs; and
(d) perform such other duties as may be directed by the
Council. (2) Where the Registrar is absent or unable to carry out
any of his functions under this Act, the Deputy Registrar shall
exercise such functions. Secretariat of
Council
Appointment of
Registrar and
Deputy Registrar
Functions of
Registrar and
Deputy Registrar

istrar shall
exercise such functions. Secretariat of
Council
Appointment of
Registrar and
Deputy Registrar
Functions of
Registrar and
Deputy Registrar

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THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
(3) The Deputy Registrar shall assist the Registrar of the
Council and shall perform such other duties as may be directed
by the Council or the Registrar. (4) Where the Registrar and Deputy Registrar are both
absent, any other officer of the Council shall carry out the
functions of the Registrar in his behalf as the Chairman of the
Council may in writing designate. 10. The Council shall, for better implementation of the
provisions of this Act, designate zones and shall, for each zone,
appoint a registered veterinarian to be an Assistant Registrar
who shall perform specific duties as may be delegated to him
by the Registrar. 11.–(1) The Minister shall, upon recommendation of the
Council and by notice published in the Gazette, appoint from
amongst registered veterinarians such number of persons to
be inspectors under this Act.

Council and by notice published in the Gazette, appoint from
amongst registered veterinarians such number of persons to
be inspectors under this Act.

(2) Duties of an inspector appointed under subsection (1)
shall include-
(a) to inspect veterinary practice facility or facilities in his
area of operation;
(b) to examine or inspect any certificate of registration,
enrolment or enlistment, licences, books, electronic
information, storage system or other related document
in the premises and he may take extracts from
documents which may be necessary to effect the
examination or inspection;
(c) to provide advice to occupiers or operators of the
facility on the management of the veterinary practice
facility;
(d) to prepare inspection reports for submission to the
Council; and
(e) to do such other things as may be required or directed
by the Council. Appointment
and functions
of Assistant
Registrar
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 73
Appointment,
duties and powers
of inspectors

ired or directed
by the Council. Appointment
and functions
of Assistant
Registrar
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 73
Appointment,
duties and powers
of inspectors

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THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
(3) The inspector shall in the performance of his duties
under subsection (2) have powers-
(a) to enter and inspect any premises suspected to be used
as a veterinary practice facility;
(b) to require the owner or operator of the veterinary
practice facility or premises to observe and maintain
good condition or established standards of the
veterinary practice facility;
(c) to issue prohibition notice to owners or operators
of veterinary practice facilities who operate in
contravention of prescribed procedures or standards;
(d) to seize and detain any drugs, equipment, records or
any other thing which appears to him to constitute or
contain evidence in contravention of this Act; and
(e) to inquire into any matter regarding animal disease or
animal health within his area of jurisdiction.

n evidence in contravention of this Act; and
(e) to inquire into any matter regarding animal disease or
animal health within his area of jurisdiction.

12.–(1) Funds and resources of the Council shall include-
(a) such sums as may be apportioned by the National
Assembly for the purpose of the Council;
(b) all fees payable under this Act;
(c) such donations, grants, bequeaths and loans as the
Council may receive from any person or institution;
(d) proceeds derived from sale of Council’s property; and
(e) any other source of income identified by the Minister
or Council and legally obtained. (2) The funds and resources of the Council shall be applied
for the purposes for which the Council is established and in
accordance with the directions of the Council. (3) The Council shall-
(a) keep proper accounts and other records relating the
funds and resources;
(b) within three months after the end of each financial
year, cause such accounts to be audited by a recognised
auditing authority appointed for such purposes by the
Council; and
Funds and
resources of
Council

r, cause such accounts to be audited by a recognised
auditing authority appointed for such purposes by the
Council; and
Funds and
resources of
Council

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THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
(c) prepare and publish an annual report which shall
contain-
(i) estimates of income and expenditure of the
Council for the year stated in the report;
(ii) an account of operations of the Council during
the year for which the report was prepared;
(iii) audited accounts; and
(iv) such other information or matters as may be
required. (4) The audited financial statements of the Council and
the auditor reports, shall be forwarded to the Minister, who
shall as soon as may be practicable lay the reports before the
National Assembly. 13. Members of the Council, committees, the Secretariat and
other staff of the Council shall be paid allowances from the
funds of the Council at such rates as may be determined by the
Council upon the approval of the Minister. 14.

ouncil shall be paid allowances from the
funds of the Council at such rates as may be determined by the
Council upon the approval of the Minister. 14.

A matter or thing done by any member of the Council or
Committee or any other person empowered to perform any
function under this Act, done in good faith, in the execution or
purported execution of his functions under this Act, shall not
render the member or any other authorised person personally
liable for the matter or thing done. PART III
REGISTRATION OF VETERINARIANS
AND VETERINARY SPECIALISTS
15.–(1) A person shall be required to register with the
Council upon payment of prescribed fee before practicing as a
veterinarian or veterinary specialist if-
(a) in the case of a veterinarian, the person has been
awarded a veterinary degree recognised by the
Council; or
Remuneration
Protection of
members of
Council
Qualifications
for registration
of veterinarian
or veterinary
specialist
Acts Nos. 4 of 2016 s. 57
1 of 2022 s. 74

on
Protection of
members of
Council
Qualifications
for registration
of veterinarian
or veterinary
specialist
Acts Nos. 4 of 2016 s. 57
1 of 2022 s. 74

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THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
(b) in the case of a veterinary specialist the person holds
qualifications which entitles him to be recognised as a
veterinary specialist, under this Act. (2) The Council shall prescribe the manner and procedure
in which a qualified veterinary specialist shall be ascertained
before being registered under this Act. (3) A person shall not be registered as a veterinarian
or veterinary specialist unless that person, in addition
to the qualification stipulated under subsection (1), has
undergone internship training for a period of not less than
one year. 16.

erson, in addition
to the qualification stipulated under subsection (1), has
undergone internship training for a period of not less than
one year. 16.

A person may not qualify for registration if-
(a) the applicant has been found guilty of an offence and
where the ability or credibility of the applicant to
practice is likely to be affected;
(b) in the opinion of the Council, the applicant is unfit
to be registered because of mental impairment which
significantly impairs ability to practice;
(c) the Council proves that the degree or document
presented for registration has been obtained by fraud
or misrepresentation;
(d) the qualifications upon which the applicant relied for
registration have been withdrawn by the Council; or
(e) the academic certificate has been nullified or withdrawn
by the issuing Institution. 17.–(1) A person who wishes to obtain registration under this
Part, shall submit an application in the prescribed form to the
Registrar. (2) An application under subsection (1) shall be
accompanied by-
(a) a certified copy or copies of certificates for academic
qualifications of the applicant; and
(b) an application fee as may be prescribed in the
regulations. Disqualification
for registration
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 75
Procedure for
registration

d
(b) an application fee as may be prescribed in the
regulations. Disqualification
for registration
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 75
Procedure for
registration

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THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
(3) The Registrar shall, after receiving an application, refer
the application together with the recommendations to the
Council for consideration and determination. (4) The Council may, after consideration of the matter-
(a) approve the application and direct the Registrar to
register the applicant; or
(b) reject an application and direct the Registrar to inform
the applicant accordingly, stating the reasons for the
Council’s decision. 18.–(1) The Registrar shall, immediately after effecting
registration under this Act, issue to every registered
veterinarian or veterinary specialist a certificate of registration
upon payment of the prescribed fee. (2) The certificate of registration shall contain-
(a) full names and address of the applicant;
(b) his academic qualifications and title; and
(c) such terms and conditions in respect of which a
certificate is issued.

nd address of the applicant;
(b) his academic qualifications and title; and
(c) such terms and conditions in respect of which a
certificate is issued.

19.–(1) A person registered under this Act as a veterinarian or
veterinary specialist shall be entitled-
(a) to take or use the title and description of veterinary
profession according to the title indicated on the
certificate of registration and shall not be allowed to take
or use or affix to or use in connection with his facility any
title or description other than that of registration; and
(b) to practice a veterinary profession and demand, sue
for and recover in any court of law reasonable charges
for professional services, aid, advice and visits, and the
value of any medicine, or veterinary appliance supplied
by him and sign certificates or prescriptions or other
documents required to be signed by a duly qualified
veterinarian or veterinary specialist. (2) A person shall not be entitled to recover therefore any
charges for veterinary professional advice given or visit made,
or for the value of any medicine or appliance supplied pursuant
Certificate of
registration
Privileges and use
of titles

l advice given or visit made,
or for the value of any medicine or appliance supplied pursuant
Certificate of
registration
Privileges and use
of titles

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.33
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
to this Act, if at the time when such service or advice was given
or visit made or such medicine or appliance was supplied, the
person was not duly registered. 20.–(1) Foreigners and Tanzanian citizens who qualified
as veterinarians or veterinary specialists outside Tanzania
shall, upon payment of prescribed fees, sit for and pass an
examination before their registration by the Council. (2) The Council may, if the applicant fails the examination
under subsection (1), provide the last opportunity for the
applicant to re-sit the examination. 21. The Council shall have power to grant temporary
registration to a foreign veterinarian or veterinary specialist
who holds qualifications allowing him to practice for a specific
period and perform specific functions as may be determined
by the Council. 22.–(1) The Council shall cause to be kept and maintained a
Register of all veterinarians and veterinary specialists to whom
the Council has granted registration under this Act.

ause to be kept and maintained a
Register of all veterinarians and veterinary specialists to whom
the Council has granted registration under this Act.

(2) The Register shall contain-
(a) full names and address of veterinarians or veterinary
specialists;
(b) particulars of registration including-
(i) date of registration and number of certificate
issued;
(ii) academic qualifications;
(iii) name of institution where qualification was
obtained;
(iv) date of obtaining the qualification; and
(v) any other personal particulars, as may be
determined by the Council. (3) The Council may, upon payment of prescribed fee, make
any alteration or correction in relation to any change in the
contents of the Register, regarding particulars of a registered
person. Registration for
veterinarians
or veterinary
specialist
qualified outside
Tanzania
Temporary
registration
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 76
Register for
veterinarians,
veterinary
specialists

or veterinary
specialist
qualified outside
Tanzania
Temporary
registration
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 76
Register for
veterinarians,
veterinary
specialists

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.34
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
(4) The changes in the Register, under subsection (3) may
include-
(a) removal of the name of a deceased person;
(b) change of a name that has been legally changed through
marriage or otherwise;
(c) change of particulars of registration of a person;
(d) removal therefrom any entry which has been incorrectly
or fraudulently made;
(e) consent of the person concerned or the opinion of
the Council to remove the name of a person who has
ceased to or never commenced to practice in Tanzania
as a veterinarian or veterinary specialist;
(f) removal of the name of any person or veterinary practice
facility, which has ceased to retain the registration for a
period of one year; and
(g) any other change as may be required. 23.–(1) A registered veterinarian or veterinary specialist shall
retain his registration through annual renewal.

any other change as may be required. 23.–(1) A registered veterinarian or veterinary specialist shall
retain his registration through annual renewal.

(2) An application for renewal for retention of registration
shall be made to the Council in a prescribed manner before
expiration of existing certificate and shall be accompanied by a
prescribed renewal fee. (3) Where a registered veterinarian or veterinary specialist
fails to apply for retention before the expiration of the
existing certificate of registration, the Council may renew the
registration if the application is made within six months after
the end of the expiry period. (4) Where at the end of that period of six months, a registered
veterinarian or veterinary specialist has not renewed his
registration, the Council shall suspend the registration for one
year, and if after the year the veterinary or veterinary specialist
fails to renew the registration, then the Council shall, subject
to section 25 cancel the registration and remove person’s name
from the Register. Retention in
Register

registration, then the Council shall, subject
to section 25 cancel the registration and remove person’s name
from the Register. Retention in
Register

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.35
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
24. The Minister shall, on the advice of the Council and
by notice in the Gazette, publish the names, academic
qualifications and address of all veterinarians and veterinary
specialists registered under this Act. 25. The Council may, subject to section 26 and if it is satisfied
that the terms and conditions of registration have been
violated-
(a) cancel or suspend the certificate of registration; and
(b) direct the Registrar-
(i) to notify the veterinarian or veterinary specialist
whose certificate has been cancelled requiring
him to stop practising; and
(ii) to remove the name of the veterinarian or
veterinary specialist whose certificate has been
cancelled from the Register. 26.–(1) Where the veterinarian or veterinary specialist is in
violation of the terms and conditions of his registration, the
Registrar shall, on the direction of the Council, serve on
the veterinarian or veterinary specialist a notice in writing
specifying the nature of default.

strar shall, on the direction of the Council, serve on
the veterinarian or veterinary specialist a notice in writing
specifying the nature of default.

(2) Upon receipt of the notice under subsection (1), the
veterinarian or veterinary specialist shall make representation
in writing to the Registrar on the rectification of the default. (3) Where the veterinarian or veterinary specialist fails to
rectify the default within the time specified in the notice or
fails to make representation satisfactory to the Registrar, the
Registrar shall recommend to the Council for cancellation or
suspension of the certificate of registration. (4) The Council shall, if it is satisfied with the recommendations
made under subsection (3), direct the Registrar to cancel or
suspend the certificate of registration. 27.–(1) A veterinarian or a veterinary specialist whose
certificate of registration has been cancelled or suspended
shall be required to apply for re-registration to the Registrar
Publication of
veterinarians
and veterinary
specialists
Cancellation or
suspension of
certificates
Procedure for
cancellation or
suspension
Re-registration
of veterinarians
or veterinary
specialists

ialists
Cancellation or
suspension of
certificates
Procedure for
cancellation or
suspension
Re-registration
of veterinarians
or veterinary
specialists

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.36
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
within the period of two years from the date of cancellation or
suspension. (2) Where the veterinarian or veterinary specialist fails
without good cause to submit an application for re-registration
within the period of two years, the Council may direct that
such veterinarian or veterinary specialist be reinstated in the
register after passing an examination or paying a penalty fee as
may be determined by the Council. PART IV
ENROLMENT OF PARAPROFESSIONALS
AND ENLISTMENT OF
PARAPROFESSIONAL ASSISTANTS
28. A person who wishes to practice as a paraprofessional or
paraprofessional assistant shall, before practicing as such, be
required to enroll or to enlist with the Council.

to practice as a paraprofessional or
paraprofessional assistant shall, before practicing as such, be
required to enroll or to enlist with the Council.

29.–(1) A person shall-
(a) enroll with the Council to practice as a paraprofessional
if the person has been awarded a diploma in animal
health recognised by the Council after undergone
internship training for a period of not less than six
months; or
(b) enlist with the Council to practice as the paraprofessional
assistant if the person has been awarded an animal
health certificate recognised by the Council. (2) The Minister may, on the recommendation of the
Council and by notice published in the Gazette, specify other
certificates or qualifications which shall entitle the holders
thereof for enrolment and enlistment under this Act. 30.–(1) A person who desires to enroll as the paraprofessional
or to enlist as the paraprofessional assistant shall submit his
application in the prescribed form to the Registrar. Requirement for
enrolment and
enlistment
Qualification for
enrolment and
enlistment
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 77
Procedure for
enrolment or
enlistment

rar. Requirement for
enrolment and
enlistment
Qualification for
enrolment and
enlistment
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 77
Procedure for
enrolment or
enlistment

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.37
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
(2) An application form under subsection (1) shall contain
such particulars as may be determined by the Council and
shall be accompanied by-
(a) a certified copy or copies of certificate for academic
qualifications of the applicant; and
(b) enrolment or enlistment fee as may be prescribed. 31.–(1) The Registrar shall, on the directive of the Council
and upon payment of prescribed fee, issue to every enrolled
paraprofessional and enlisted paraprofessional assistant a
certificate of enrolment or enlistment as may be prescribed. (2) A certificate to be issued under subsection (1) shall
be signed by the Chairman and the Registrar, and shall on
production thereof in any way be admissible as prima facie
evidence of enrolment or enlistment under this Act. (3) The Council shall, in granting a certificate of enrolment
or enlistment to the paraprofessional or paraprofessional
assistant under this Act, impose specific or general conditions
to be observed by the holder of the certificate.

paraprofessional or paraprofessional
assistant under this Act, impose specific or general conditions
to be observed by the holder of the certificate.

(4) Where an application for enrolment or enlistment is
not granted, the Council shall direct the Registrar to notify
the applicant in writing stating the reasons for the Council
decision. 32. A paraprofessional or paraprofessional assistant enrolled or
enlisted pursuant to this Act shall at all times practice under the
supervision of a registered veterinarian or veterinary specialist. 33.–(1) The Council shall cause to be kept and maintained
a roll of paraprofessionals and a list of a paraprofessional
assistants to whom the Council has granted enrolment or as
the case may be enlistment under this Act and the roll or list
shall contain the following particulars-
(a) full name and address; and
(b) particulars of enlistment including-
(i) date of enlistment;
(ii) academic qualification;
Issuance of
certificate of
enrolment or
enlistment
Restriction
in veterinary
practice
Maintenance of
rolls and lists

ent;
(ii) academic qualification;
Issuance of
certificate of
enrolment or
enlistment
Restriction
in veterinary
practice
Maintenance of
rolls and lists

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.38
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
(iii) the place where qualification was obtained;
(iv) date of obtaining the qualification; and
(v) such other particulars as may be determined by
the Council. (2) The Council shall, upon payment of prescribed fee,
make any alteration or correction in relation to any change in
the contents of the roll or list, regarding particulars of enrolled
or enlisted persons. (3) The changes in the roll or list under subsection (2) may
include-
(a) removal of the name of a deceased person;
(b) change of a name that has been legally changed through
marriage or otherwise;
(c) change of particulars of enrolment or enlistment of a
person;
(d) removal of any entry which has been incorrectly or
fraudulently made;
(e) removal of the name of a person who has ceased to or
never commenced to practice in the United Republic
as paraprofessional or paraprofessional assistant;
(f) removal of the name of any person who has ceased to
retain the enrolment or enlistment for a period of one
year; or
(g) any other change as may be required.

l of the name of any person who has ceased to
retain the enrolment or enlistment for a period of one
year; or
(g) any other change as may be required.

34.–(1) Where the holder of the certificate of enrolment or
enlistment fails to observe the imposed conditions as required,
the Council may cancel or suspend the certificate of enrolment
or enlistment granted to him under section 31. (2) The provisions of section 26 shall apply mutatis mutandis
in relation to the procedure for cancellation or suspension of
the certificate for enrolment or enlistment under this section. 35.–(1) Where a certificate for enrolment and enlistment has
been cancelled or suspended under this section, a person whose
certificate is cancelled or suspended shall be required to apply
Cancellation or
suspension of
certificates of
enrolment or
enlistment
Re- enrolment
and re-enlistment

ancelled or suspended shall be required to apply
Cancellation or
suspension of
certificates of
enrolment or
enlistment
Re- enrolment
and re-enlistment

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.39
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
to the Registrar for reinstatement of enrolment or enlistment
within a period of two years from the date of cancellation or
suspension of his certificate. (2) Where a paraprofessional or paraprofessional assistant
fails to submit an application for reinstatement of enrolment
or enlistment within the period of two years as required under
subsection (1), the Council may order that such a person be
reinstated in the roll or list after passing an examination or
paying a penalty fee as may be determined by the Council. 36. The Registrar shall, not later than 31st March of every year
and at such other times as may be determined by the Council,
cause publication of names of enrolled or enlisted person
under this Act in the official Gazette, and in other media.

ay be determined by the Council,
cause publication of names of enrolled or enlisted person
under this Act in the official Gazette, and in other media.

37.–(1) Every enrolled paraprofessional or enlisted
paraprofessional assistant shall retain enrolment or enlistment
through annual renewal whereby an application for renewal
of retention of enrolment or enlistment shall be made to the
Council in a prescribed manner before expiration of existing
certificate of enrolment or enlistment and shall be accompanied
by a renewal fee as may be determined by the Council. (2) Where the enrolled or enlisted person fails to apply for
retention before the end of the existing enrolment or enlistment
period, the Council may renew that enrolment or enlistment if
the application is made within six months after the end of the
expiry period. (3) Where at the end of the period of six months, the enrolled
or enlisted person has not renewed his certificate of enrolment
or enlistment, the Council shall suspend the enrolment or
enlistment for one year and, if after the period of one year a
paraprofessional or paraprofessional assistant fails to renew
the enrolment or enlistment then, the Council shall subject to
section 34, cancel the enrolment or enlistment and order the
removal of the relevant person’s name in the roll or list.

, the Council shall subject to
section 34, cancel the enrolment or enlistment and order the
removal of the relevant person’s name in the roll or list.

Publication of
paraprofessional
and
paraprofessional
assistants
Retention in roll
or list

Publication of
paraprofessional
and
paraprofessional
assistants
Retention in roll
or list

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.40
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
PART V
REGISTRATION OF VETERINARY
PRACTICE FACILITIES
38.–(1) A person who owns a veterinary practice facility shall,
before operating the facility, be required to register the facility
with the Council and to fulfil requirements of the prescribed
standards upon which the certificate of registration in respect
of the facility shall be issued. (2) A holder of certificate of registration issued under
subsection (1) shall be entitled to operate the facility specified
on the certificate of registration after obtaining an operating
permit from the Council. (3) The certificate of registration and the operating permit
issued under this section shall be in the form as may be
prescribed. (4) A registered veterinary practice facility shall be run by a
registered veterinarian or veterinary specialists who shall be
obliged to observe the code of conduct for veterinary practice as
may be prescribed in the regulations to be made under this Act.

ialists who shall be
obliged to observe the code of conduct for veterinary practice as
may be prescribed in the regulations to be made under this Act.

(5) Technical support staff working in a facility shall be
paraprofessionals or paraprofessionals assistant. 39.–(1) A person who seeks registration of veterinary practice
facility under this Act shall submit an application in the
prescribed form together with prescribed application fee to
the Registrar. (2) The Council shall, before granting registration of the
veterinary practice facility, cause the facility to be inspected by
the inspection committee of the Council. (3) The inspection committee shall inspect the premises of
the veterinary facility and prepare a brief report in respect of
inspected facility to be submitted to the Council. (4) The Council may-
(a) if after due consideration of the report is satisfied
that the applicant has fulfilled all requirements, grant
Registration
of veterinary
practice facilities
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 78
Procedure for
registration

the applicant has fulfilled all requirements, grant
Registration
of veterinary
practice facilities
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 78
Procedure for
registration

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.41
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
registration of the veterinary practice facility and issue
a certificate of the registration in respect of registered
facility; and
(b) reject an application and direct the Registrar to notify
the applicant in writing stating the reasons for the
decision of the Council. 40.–(1) There shall be kept and maintained a Register for
registered veterinary practice facilities under this Act. (2) The Register shall contain-
(a) the name and full address of the veterinary practice
facility;
(b) name of the owner or operator of the facility;
(c) the location and type of the facility;
(d) registration number of the facility; and
(e) such other particulars as may be determined by the
Council.

c) the location and type of the facility;
(d) registration number of the facility; and
(e) such other particulars as may be determined by the
Council.

41.–(1) The Council shall, where a registered veterinary
practice facility is not managed or operated in accordance with
prescribed standards and procedures-
(a) cancel or suspend the certificate of registration in
respect of that facility; and
(b) direct the Registrar to notify the operator or owner of
the facility requiring him to stop operating the facility. (2) The provisions of section 26 shall apply mutatis mutandis
in relation to procedures for cancellation and suspension of
certificate of registration under this section. PART VI
GENERAL PROVISIONS ON VETERINARY
PRACTICE AND COMPLAINTS
42. Every registered veterinarian, veterinary specialist, enrolled
paraprofessional and enlisted paraprofessional assistant shall
have the obligation to conduct affairs of the profession with
the highest degree of honesty, skill and integrity and shall be
Register of
veterinary
practice facilities
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 79
Cancellation
of certificate of
registration
Practice, ethics
and conduct

d shall be
Register of
veterinary
practice facilities
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 79
Cancellation
of certificate of
registration
Practice, ethics
and conduct

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.42
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
required to observe the code of conduct and ethics prescribed
under this Act. 43. A person shall not, practice, whether directly or by implication,
as a veterinarian or veterinary specialist or paraprofessional or
paraprofessional assistant unless he has obtained registration or
enrolment or enlistment under this Act. 44.–(1) The Minister may, by regulations and upon advice by
the Council-
(a) exempt any person or category of persons from the
requirements of section 43; and
(b) prescribe the procedure and manner in which the
exempted person or category of persons shall practice.

ns from the
requirements of section 43; and
(b) prescribe the procedure and manner in which the
exempted person or category of persons shall practice.

(2) Without prejudice to subsection (1), exemption from
the requirement of section 43 shall be granted in respect of-
(a) any treatment given to an animal by the owner thereof, by
any other member of the household of which the owner
is a member, or by a person in the regular employment
of the owner or of any other member of such household;
(b) anything done, otherwise than for reward, by a person
engaged or employed in farming, to an animal owned
whether by himself or another person for the purpose
of livestock management practice;
(c) anything done, in the rendering of first aid for the
purpose of saving life or relieving pain; and
(d) the performance of all or any of the following operations:
(i) bloodless castration;
(ii) the tailing of a lamb;
(iii) the docking of the tail of a dog before its eyes are
open;
(iv) the disbudding of a calf under the age of four
weeks;
(v) earmarking an animal raised for human
consumption; or
(vi) any minor treatment, test or operation as may be
specified by the Council. Prohibition
of practice by
unauthorised
person
Exemptions

sumption; or
(vi) any minor treatment, test or operation as may be
specified by the Council. Prohibition
of practice by
unauthorised
person
Exemptions

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.43
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
45.–(1) Where a complaint is lodged to the Council against
any veterinarian, veterinary specialist, or paraprofessional
or paraprofessional assistant, the Council shall cause an
investigation to be conducted into such complaint by a
Disciplinary Committee of the Council. (2) The Disciplinary Committee shall conduct a preliminary
investigation in a manner it sees fit and submit to the Council
the investigation report. (3) The Disciplinary Committee may, in the process of
investigation, invite any person to provide expertise as may be
required. 46.–(1) The Council may, upon receiving a report of
preliminary investigation-
(a) direct that the matter shall not proceed further;
(b) that an Inquiry Committee be appointed for conducting
inquiry into the matter; or
(c) determine the means to deal with the complaint
without necessarily carrying out any detailed formal
investigation or inquiry.

into the matter; or
(c) determine the means to deal with the complaint
without necessarily carrying out any detailed formal
investigation or inquiry.

(2) The Council shall, where it has decided to appoint an
Inquiry Committee to enquire into a complaint-
(a) serve a written notice by registered post on the
veterinarian or veterinary specialist or paraprofessional
or paraprofessional assistant concerned notifying him
of the date, time and place for the inquiry and nature of
the complaint; and
(b) appoint an Inquiry Committee consisting of not more
than four persons being-
(i) one veterinarian or paraprofessional or
paraprofessional assistant;
(ii) one veterinary specialist in the area of investigation;
(iii) one lawyer; and
(iv) one person as may be determined by the Council. (3) Where the Inquiry Committee finds that the veterinarian,
or veterinary specialist or paraprofessional or paraprofessional
Investigations of
complaints
Decision of
Council

mmittee finds that the veterinarian,
or veterinary specialist or paraprofessional or paraprofessional
Investigations of
complaints
Decision of
Council

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.44
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
assistant has engaged in any professional misconduct, it shall
submit a report to the Council with recommendations. (4) The Council shall, after consideration of the inquiry report
and the recommendations thereof, determine the matter and
may direct that a person against whom the complaint was made-
(a) be reprimanded or fined;
(b) be suspended; or
(c) be removed from the Register, Roll or List. (5) Notwithstanding the foregoing subsections, the Council
shall have the power to conduct an informal hearing into
the professional misconduct of a veterinarian, veterinary
specialist, paraprofessional or paraprofessional assistant
without appointing an Inquiry Committee. PART VII
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
47.–(1) A person who is aggrieved by any decision of the
Council under this Act, may, at any time within three months
after receiving the notice of the decision of the Council, appeal
to the Minister.

of the
Council under this Act, may, at any time within three months
after receiving the notice of the decision of the Council, appeal
to the Minister.

(2) Where a decision of the Council for an offence makes it
unlawful for a person to practice or use any veterinary practice
facility for purposes of practicing, the person shall stop
practising and shall not use the facility for that purpose, and
if any appeal is lodged, until the appeal is finally determined. 48.–(1) A person who carries out any act that requires the
services of a registered veterinarian or veterinary specialist
or enrolled paraprofessional or enlisted paraprofessional
assistant, or practices the veterinary profession, without
obtaining registration, enrolment or enlistment under this
Act, commits an offence and on conviction shall be liable to
a fine of not less than five hundred thousand shillings and not
more than one million shillings or to imprisonment for a term
not exceeding one year or to both. Appeals
Offences related
to unauthorised
practice

not
more than one million shillings or to imprisonment for a term
not exceeding one year or to both. Appeals
Offences related
to unauthorised
practice

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.45
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
(2) A person, who operates a veterinary practice facility
which is not registered under this Act, commits an offence
and on conviction shall be liable to a fine not exceeding five
hundred thousand shillings or to imprisonment for a term not
exceeding one year.

ffence
and on conviction shall be liable to a fine not exceeding five
hundred thousand shillings or to imprisonment for a term not
exceeding one year.

49.–(1) A person, being a registered veterinarian or
veterinary specialist, enrolled paraprofessional or enlisted
paraprofessional assistant, who-
(a) makes an advertisement that is, false, fraudulent,
deceptive or misleading and refers to secret methods of
treatment and violates by-law of advertisement;
(b) makes untruthful or deceitful or misleading statements
or acts;
(c) conducts himself dishonestly or unfairly;
(d) uses unregistered, substandard, expired or counterfeit
drugs;
(e) commits any acts tantamount to misconduct or
misdemeanor; or
(f) unethically signs or validates a certificate without
actually or physically inspecting the animal,
commits an offence of professional misconduct and may,
upon directions of the Council, be reprimanded or suspended
or his name struck off from the Register, Roll or, as the case
may be, List. (2) Where the Council gives a direction under subsection
(1), the Council shall cause notice of the direction to be signed
by the Chairman and served on the person to whom it relates. 50.

on under subsection
(1), the Council shall cause notice of the direction to be signed
by the Chairman and served on the person to whom it relates. 50.

A person who-
(a) makes false or misleading statement, whether verbally
or in writing, procures for himself or any other person
registration or any certificate, receipt, approval or other
document issued under this Act;
(b) makes any unauthorised entry or addition or alteration
in or removal from a Register, which is kept in terms
Offences related
to professional
misconduct
Offences related
to fraud

or addition or alteration
in or removal from a Register, which is kept in terms
Offences related
to professional
misconduct
Offences related
to fraud

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.46
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E.

of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.46
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E.

2023]
of this Act, or an extract therefrom, or other document
issued under this Act;
(c) destroys or damages or renders illegible any entry in
a Register kept in terms of this Act or, without the
permission of the holder thereof, a certificate, receipt,
approval or other document issued under this Act;
(d) forges or, knowing it to be forged, utters any document
purporting to be a certificate, receipt, approval or other
document issued in terms of this Act;
(e) impersonates any person registered or deemed to be
registered in terms of this Act;
(f) refuses or fails without lawful cause to be sworn having
appeared as a witness at an inquiry by the Council, or
refuses to make an affirmation or to answer any question
or to produce any book, document or record which he
may lawfully be required to answer or to produce;
(g) refuses or fails without lawful cause to appear, having
been duly summoned to appear, at an inquiry by the
Council under this Act;
(h) refuses or fails to comply with any condition or
restriction imposed by the Council under this Act;
(i) refuses or fails without lawful cause to make any
statement or give any explanation, which may lawfully
be demanded, from him in the application of this Act;
(j) makes or gives a false statement or explanation knowing
it to be false; or
(k) obstructs or hinders a member of the Council or of the
Disciplinary Committee or of any other Committee
of the Council in the exercise of his powers or the
performance of his functions under this Act,
commits an offence of fraud and on conviction shall be liable
to a fine or to imprisonment for a term as prescribed by the
Penal Code.

under this Act,
commits an offence of fraud and on conviction shall be liable
to a fine or to imprisonment for a term as prescribed by the
Penal Code.

51. A person who contravenes any provision of this Act or
subsidiary legislation made hereunder to which no specific
penalty is provided commits an offence and on conviction,
Cap. 16
General penalty
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 80

islation made hereunder to which no specific
penalty is provided commits an offence and on conviction,
Cap. 16
General penalty
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 80

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.47
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
shall be liable to a fine not exceeding five hundred thousand
shillings or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six
months or to both. [s. 50A]
52.–(1) [Repeals the Veterinary Surgeons Ordinance.]
(2) Notwithstanding the repeal of the Veterinary Surgeons
Ordinance, any right, assets, liabilities and obligations of the
Board immediately before its abolition shall become the right,
assets, liabilities and obligations of the Council including
contracts, agreements, or arrangements or amendments made
by or against or in relation to the Board. (3) A person who was registered as a veterinary surgeon
under the Ordinance immediately before the commencement
of this Act, shall be deemed to have been registered under
this Act except that such registration shall expire on the 31st
December of the year in which the Act comes into operation.

have been registered under
this Act except that such registration shall expire on the 31st
December of the year in which the Act comes into operation.

(4) Rules or regulations made by or under the authority
of the former Board for the purpose of regulating functions
and discipline amongst veterinarians shall remain in force and
shall continue in force until revoked or replaced by regulations
made under this Act. [s. 51]
53.–(1) The Minister may, after consultation with the Council
make regulations for better carrying out the purposes and
provisions of this Act. (2) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1),
the Minister may make regulations prescribing-
(a) the procedure for registration, enrolment and
enlistment under this Act;
(b) various forms to be used under this Act;
(c) the procedure for inspection of veterinary practice
facilities by inspectors and supervision of veterinary
practice, paraprofessionals and paraprofessional
assistants;
Repeal and
transition
Ord. No. 20 of 1956
Power to make
regulations
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 81

actice, paraprofessionals and paraprofessional
assistants;
Repeal and
transition
Ord. No. 20 of 1956
Power to make
regulations
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 81

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.48
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
(d) fees and other charges to be paid or charged under this
Act;
(e) procedure for conducting inquiry under this Act;
(f) types of establishment and constitution of colleges for
veterinary specialists under this Act;
(g) training standards and range of interventions for
paraprofessional and paraprofessional assistants;
(h) procedures for nominations, elections and appointment
of certain members of the Council;
(i) procedures for appointment of examiners, their duties
and remuneration;
(j) the manner and procedures for management of
complaints and appeals under this Act;
(k) operation of retail veterinary outlets and storage,
distribution and dispensing of veterinary drugs;
(l) code of conduct for veterinary practice to be observed
by veterinarians, veterinary specialists, paraprofessional
or paraprofessional assistants; and
(m) anything which needs to be prescribed under this Act. (3) The regulations made under this section shall be
published in the Gazette. [s.

ants; and
(m) anything which needs to be prescribed under this Act. (3) The regulations made under this section shall be
published in the Gazette. [s.

52]
SCHEDULE
(Made under section 4 (1))
PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE COUNCIL
1. The Council shall consist of nine members who shall be appointed by
the Minister, as follows:
(a) the Chairman who shall be a veterinarian of outstanding
experience in veterinary matters;
(b) two representatives from veterinary department;
(c) representative from a collage, schools of faculty veterinary
medicine;
(d) a representative from registered private veterinarians who
shall be nominated from amongst registered veterinarians in
private practice;
(e) a representative of the Tanzania Veterinary Association;
Composition of
Council
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 82

istered veterinarians in
private practice;
(e) a representative of the Tanzania Veterinary Association;
Composition of
Council
Act No. 1 of 2022 s. 82

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.49
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
(f) a representative of paraprofessionals nominated from
amongst themselves;
(g) a registered veterinarian who is a representative of the
veterinary pharmaceutical industry; and
(h) a law officer employed in the Office of the Attorney General
to be nominated by the Attorney General. 2.–(1) A member of the Council appointed under paragraph 1 other
than the Chairman, the Vice Chairman and a representative of
Attorney General shall, unless the appointment is earlier cancelled
by the Minister, hold office for three years and shall be eligible for re-
appointment for one more term. (2) The Chairman shall be appointed to serve for four years and
shall be eligible for re-appointment for one more term. (3) The Vice Chairman shall be elected at the first meeting of the
term by members of the Council from amongst themselves and the
member so elected shall hold office for three consecutive years.

e first meeting of the
term by members of the Council from amongst themselves and the
member so elected shall hold office for three consecutive years.

(4) A representative from the Office of the Attorney General shall
hold office for such period or periods as the Attorney General may
determine. 3.–(1) Notwithstanding the provisions of subparagraph (1), of
paragraph 2, any member of the Council, other than the Chairman or a
person holding an office of emolument under the United Republic, may
at any time resign from membership of Council by notice in writing
addressed to the appointing authority, who shall forthwith cause it to
be forwarded to the Council, and from the date of the receipt by the
Council of such notice, such member shall cease to be a member of the
Council. (2) The appointment, termination and resignation of members of
the Council shall be published in the Gazette for general information. 4.–(1) The Council shall meet not less than four times in a year and at
such times as may be necessary or expedient for the transaction of its
business and such meetings shall be held at such places and times and
dates as may be determined by the Chairman. (2) The Secretary of the Council shall give notice of a meeting to
each member not less than fourteen days before the date of meeting.

y the Chairman. (2) The Secretary of the Council shall give notice of a meeting to
each member not less than fourteen days before the date of meeting.

(3) The Chairman shall preside at all meetings of the Council, and
in the case of his absence the Vice Chairman shall preside, and in the
case of the absence of both the Chairman and Vice Chairman, members
present and constituting a quorum shall elect from among themselves a
temporary Chairman who shall preside at that meeting. (4) The decisions of the Council shall be by a majority of votes and
the Chairman of the meeting shall have a casting vote in addition to his
deliberative vote and if any member fails or refuses to vote the vote shall
be counted in the negative. Tenure of office of
members
Termination of
member
Meetings of
Council

f any member fails or refuses to vote the vote shall
be counted in the negative. Tenure of office of
members
Termination of
member
Meetings of
Council

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.50
THE VETERINARY ACT [CAP. 319 R.E. 2023]
(5) A decision may be made by the Council without a meeting
by circulation of the relevant papers amongst the members and the
expression of the views of the majority of the members in writing be
honoured but any member may require that the decision be deferred
and the subject matter be considered at a meeting of the Council
5.–(1) A quorum of the Council shall be two thirds of the total number
of members including a member of the Council from the Office of the
Attorney General. (2) The powers of the Council shall not be affected by any vacancy in
the membership thereof, nor by the fact that it is afterwards discovered
that there was some defect in the appointment or qualifications of a
person purporting to be a member of the Council. 6. The Council shall have powers to invite a person to its meeting or
meetings of its Committees for the purpose of providing expertise
during deliberations on specific matters but such person shall not have
the right to vote. 7.

of its Committees for the purpose of providing expertise
during deliberations on specific matters but such person shall not have
the right to vote. 7.

Minutes of each meeting shall be kept by the Registrar in proper form
and shall be approved by the Chairman not later than fourteen days
from the date of the meeting and confirmed at a subsequent meeting
of the Council. 8. All orders, directions, notices or other documents made or issued
on behalf of the Council shall be signed by the Chairman or as the case
may be the Vice Chairman or the Registrar. 9. The seal of the Council shall not be affixed to any instrument except
in the presence of the Chairman or the Vice Chairman or the Registrar. 10. Subject to the provisions of this Schedule, the Council may regulate
its own proceedings. 11. A member shall cease to be a member of the Council if the
person-
(a) is absent from three consecutive meetings of the Council
without good cause;
(b) ceases to hold the office or position for which he was
appointed;
(c) tenders a resignation in writing to appointing Authority;
(d) dies; or
(e) is suffering from mental disorder or illness. Quorum
Co-opted
members
Minutes of
meetings
Orders, direction
of Council
Seal of Council
Council to
regulate its own
proceedings
Cessation of
membership