Narok: Fear and despondency marked this year’s World Donkey Day celebrations held at the Mulot Comprehensive School along the Narok-Bomet border, where farmers recounted painful losses, occasioned by the rising cases of donkey theft in the region, with government officials warning that the crackdown on the illegal trade will intensify. World Donkey Day is marked globally to recognize the role donkeys play in supporting transport, farming, and household livelihoods, especially in rural communities.
According to Kenya News Agency, Bomet East Deputy County Commissioner, Thomas Nyoro, assured residents during the occasion that the government remains committed to protecting donkeys and prosecuting those found stealing and slaughtering the animals. Nyoro stated that recurrent donkey thieves were undermining government efforts aimed at safeguarding the animals, noting that many stolen donkeys are slaughtered indiscriminately, posing serious environmental and public health risks. He warned that individuals involved in illegal donkey slaughter rarely observe proper health and safety measures, exposing communities to possible disease outbreaks and other health hazards.
The Deputy County Commissioner also emphasized the importance of humane treatment of donkeys, urging farmers to ensure the animals are kept in clean environments, properly fed, and treated whenever they fall ill. ‘Donkeys play a critical role in supporting livelihoods and should be accorded the same care and attention given to other domestic animals,’ said Nyoro.
The event brought together donkey farmers, animal welfare advocates, and local leaders, many of whom expressed concern over the economic toll caused by persistent theft cases. One of the affected farmers, Jane Rono, broke down in tears as she narrated how two of her ten donkeys were stolen and never recovered. Rono said the animals had become the backbone of her family’s livelihood, helping her pay school fees, transport farm produce, and supply water to residents in Bomet. ‘These donkeys helped me educate my children and made work easier on the farm. Losing them felt like losing part of my family,’ she lamented.
Another resident, Margaret Mbatia, said donkey theft remains rampant in the region, forcing locals to establish community groups that help track stolen animals and share information with security agencies. She noted that cooperation among residents has played a key role in helping authorities pursue suspects and recover stolen donkeys.
Yet another farmer, Kenneth Wamuga, said efforts by the government and stakeholders have significantly reduced illegal donkey slaughter, and they will not stop until the safety of the animal is prioritized. Wamuga commended farmers for working closely with security agencies and encouraged them to continue remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities. He further urged animal owners to take responsibility for the welfare of their donkeys to ensure they remain healthy and productive.
