Bewis [13 Nov 1942 - 23 Jan 1973]

These are records on bewis(bewys). Bewis are certificates of ownership which were issued by chiefs to the animals' owners as a proof that they are the rightful owners of the animals. When acquiring or disposing of an animal the person had to apply for bewis from his chief. Even when a person was selling wool, mohair, skin and hides he had to have a bewis. The chief on his part had to satisfy himself that the animal has not been stolen. Bewis were issued for cows, horses, donkeys, sheep and goats as a proof of ownership. It is manatory for owners of animals to have bewis. Bewis was also a means of controlling stock theft.