Turkana: Turkana County marked World Donkey Day 2026 with the launch of the Digital Donkey Knowledge Hub, a platform designed to give donkey owners access to data-driven services on security, health, and care. The Artificial Intelligence-powered platform is linked to a toll-free number for reporting theft, illegal slaughter, and cases of donkeys in distress to ensure immediate action by relevant authorities.
According to Kenya News Agency, the digital hub will address widespread welfare concerns, including injuries from pain-based branding and rising cases of theft for illegal slaughter. The hub will focus on donkey nutrition, health, environment, handling, and mental wellness. Turkana South Deputy County Commissioner Gedion Ombongi emphasized the efforts by assistant county commissioners, chiefs, and their assistants to curb donkey theft and illegal slaughter.
‘Officers are under firm instructions to curb all illegal practices, including donkey theft. We remain committed to ensuring an environment where animal safety is guaranteed,’ he said. The DCC also praised traditional approaches where heavy fines are imposed on those found guilty of engaging in donkey theft.
Lokichar Ward Administrator Festus Lokucha stated that the county will collaborate with the Institute of Pastoralism Development and Research (IPDR), Brooke East Africa, and other partners to ensure respect for donkey welfare. He mentioned that residents suggested allocating funds from the FLoCCA program to improve donkey welfare and encouraged them to bring up the issue during public participation forums for consideration.
According to IPDR CEO Mariko Akileng, trials conducted on the hub helped intercept more than 400 cases of illegal slaughter and theft, demonstrating its effectiveness.
