Stakeholders in the donkey sub-sector have raised alarm over a surge in donkey theft and suspected bush slaughter in parts of Meru County, warning of growing public health and animal welfare concerns.
According to Robert Maitethia, the Chairman of the Donkey Association of Kenya, the region has recorded an increase in donkey theft over the past three months, with many cases linked to illegal slaughter and uninspected meat entering the market.
“For the last three months, it is alarming that many donkey owners have been left with OB numbers due to the rising cases of theft,” Maitethia said.
“Our investigations show donkeys are stolen especially in Tigania West, Tigania East, Buuri, and Igembe areas, and are ferried using lorries to Athi River, Kithioko, Turkana, and Barma in Nairobi for slaughter. We urge Kenyans to be wary of these cartels who endanger lives by selling bush meat that is not inspected by veterinary officers,” he added.
Speaking during a consultative meeting convened by the Department of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries, which brought together Sub-County Donkey Welfare Officers from across Meru, Maitethia emphasized the need for immediate action to stop the illegal trade and protect both animal and human health.
Stakeholders at the meeting proposed the introduction of tracking devices for donkeys to enhance monitoring, accountability, and protection of the animals.
Jasper Muthomi, representing CECM Gatangugi, stressed the importance of establishing a county policy on donkey welfare to address theft, regulate transport and breeding, and curb the illegal donkey skin trade. He added that the Department will continue to work with security agencies, stakeholders, and local communities to safeguard donkeys, which play a vital role in supporting rural livelihoods.
Meru County Veterinary Services Deputy Director Missi Mutungi said the county government, under Agriculture CECM Janaro Gatangugi, will not tolerate any activities that compromise public health. He also confirmed reports of illegal cross-border movement of donkeys from Ethiopia, Wajir, and other areas.
“We are sending a stern warning to cartels transporting and slaughtering donkeys for meat. There will be no movement of donkeys without proper registration and valid permits,” Mutungi said.
Deputy County Commissioner James Mbutu called on all government departments to collaborate in developing policies to curb illegal bush slaughter and transportation of donkeys.
Participants at the meeting were reminded that the movement of donkeys between counties must comply with legal requirements, including original movement permits, no-objection letters from destination counties, and clear documentation of the number, purpose, and means of transport.
Dr. Kibet Yegon, from Brooke East Africa, noted that there is an active ban on the donkey trade in Kenya and across Africa.
He warned that the ongoing illegal activities are causing a worrying decline in the donkey population.
