Lobby urges breeding of donkeys for meat

BY LAWRENCE ALURU

KENYA: A programme aimed at embracing breeding of donkeys for meat in the country has been launched.

Donkey Sanctuary Kenya (DSK), which protects the rights of donkeys, is also seeking to involve all the 42 tribes in Kenya in embracing the breeding programme.

Speaking on Wednesday in Rarieda district during a one-day workshop for farmers, DSK Managing Director Dancun Onduu said a census conducted two years ago revealed there were 1.8 million donkeys in Kenya.

“We will encourage quick breeding of donkeys, especially for meat,” said Mr Onduu.

 He expressed fears that the species might face rapid extinction following research findings that revealed donkey meat was palatable.

 Onduu further called on those who are already raring donkeys to ensure they give them proper treatment just like other domestic animals.

 He, however, warned those who infringe on donkeys’ rights that they risk facing stiffer penalties since they plan to review Section 360 of Animals Act of Kenya to increase penalties on those found in the wrong.

 “We want to come up with stringent penalties away from the current one of a fine of Sh3,000 or six months imprisonment,” he warned.

Cases of donkeys being slaughtered and meat sold to unsuspecting buyers have been rampant in Naivasha.