Kajiado targets illegal donkey trade following surge in thefts

The Kajiado County Government has initiated a crackdown on the sale of donkey meat following reports of increased theft and illegal slaughter of donkeys.

Acknowledging the existence of a donkey meat trade, the local administration is implementing multi-agency operations to dismantle the syndicate.

Nazaria Nyaga, the County Director of Veterinary Services, emphasized that all livestock traders must secure the proper documentation, including animal movement and no objection permits, as per legal requirements.

"Our primary concern is the theft and illegal slaughter of donkeys, which is depleting our donkey population," Dr. Nyaga stated in a phone interview with the Star.

She highlighted that this practice violates the Meat Control Act Cap 356, established in 1972, which sets standards for meat processing and control.

Nyaga also noted the challenge of tracking the sale of illegally slaughtered donkeys, as this often occurs at night. Furthermore, controlling animal movement across porous borders and within a homogenous community remains a significant obstacle.

“At times, traders say they are moving them within the county. So, those ones don’t need to be issued with a no objection permit, but only a movement permit. But, at times end up in the bush for slaughter or outside Kajiado County,” Nyaga said.

Responding to increased reports of donkey theft in Kajiado County,  Nazaria Nyaga outlined a multi-sectorial strategy to combat the issue.

Locals, particularly in the Ilbisil area, expressed distress over the thefts, which significantly impact their livelihoods. Donkeys, crucial for both domestic and commercial uses, are central to the community's economy.

Alex Mokoywa, a resident of Bisil town, emphasized the role of donkeys in supporting families, paying school fees, and providing livelihoods.

Mokoywa, involved in a donkey transportation business, expressed concerns over the thefts, noting that stolen donkeys are often slaughtered secretly or transported to undisclosed locations.

Authorities in Kajiado and neighboring counties have intensified efforts to dismantle the donkey theft syndicate.

Recent police operations in Embu and Makueni counties resulted in the arrest of four suspects and the recovery of both carcasses and live donkeys.

Experts highlight the critical importance of donkeys, especially in arid and semi-arid regions, and warn that theft and illegal slaughter threaten their population.

Joseph Munywoki, Managing Director of Inades Formation Kenya NGO, pointed out that many women rely on donkeys to earn a living, particularly by selling water.

Samuel Theuri, a senior advocacy officer at Brook East Africa, suggested a well-organized syndicate behind the illegal donkey meat trade, possibly involving international smuggling.

The 2019 National Population Census in Kenya reported a decline in the donkey population, from 1.8 million in 2009 to 1.1 million, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue.