The government has reiterated its commitment to maintaining the ban on donkey meat to protect the country’s donkey population. Speaking during a meeting in Naivasha, Nakuru County Commissioner Dr. Loyford Kibara emphasized that both existing and new donkey slaughterhouses will remain closed as part of the government’s conservation efforts.
Dr. Kibara stated that the ban is crucial in preventing the depletion of donkeys, which play a vital role in transportation and livelihoods, particularly in rural communities. “We will not allow the reopening of donkey slaughterhouses as we strive to preserve the current donkey population,” he said.
Echoing his sentiments, Dr. Jane Njuguna confirmed that the government has put in place stringent measures to prevent the illegal sale of donkey meat. She reassured the public that authorities are actively monitoring the market to ensure consumers do not unknowingly purchase and consume donkey meat.The move to uphold the ban aligns with concerns raised by farmers and animal welfare groups, who have warned that unchecked slaughter could lead to a severe decline in donkey numbers.
The government has vowed to continue enforcing the ban while exploring alternative ways to support those who previously depended on the trade for their livelihoods.
