Donkey safety champions have made a plea for more public sensitization to effectively address the issue of the declining donkey population, which is the result of increased theft cases and illegal slaughter of animals.
Dr. Silverstone Wakhu of Farming Systems Kenya, explained that continuous community education through forums organized by National Government Administration Officers should be the way forward. He added that such meetings would help communities to deeply grasp the economic and social value of donkeys, especially as a source of rural livelihoods.
Dr. Wakhu further talked about the necessity of public awareness on the laws in place as he cautioned that the act of stealing and slaughtering donkeys illegally come with harsh legal penalties.
He pointed out that persistent awareness campaigns are very effective in changing people’s mindsets and also empowering the community to take leadership in the protection of animals.
Local leaders and stakeholders participated in the meeting confirmed the need for donkey protection through a well coordinated plan. They noted the importance of donkeys in the transportation, farming, and household economics of many rural areas.
