Slaughter Equipment

Donkey slaughterhouses blamed for drop in numbers

Farming Systems Kenya blames the illegal trade and theft on the high demand for donkey products in the Far East.  

A donkey skin fetches up to Sh30,000 on the black market. Most of the donkeys found slaughtered had their ears, skins and tails missing.

Nyandarua police recently raised alarm over increased cases of donkey theft and illegal slaughter.

According to the police, criminals have shifted their interest from cattle to donkeys, which they kill and skin. They also take their livers Slaughter Equipment. 

“Ol Kalou has thousands of donkeys and we believe the thieves are camping here and neighbouring areas,” Ol Kalou police boss Wilson Kosgei said, adding that the skins were usually exported to China.

Late last week, the proprietor of Star Brilliant donkey slaughterhouse, Naivasha was summoned by the county security committee for questioning over claims of illegal activities, including purchase of stolen animals.

According to Deputy County Commissioner Isaac Masinde, five donkeys were traced to the abattoir.

The animals were reportedly stolen from farmers in Suswa, on the outskirts of Maai Mahiu Town last week. Anti-stock theft unit officers traced them to the slaughterhouse.

“Fifteen animals were stolen on that night but some of them had been slaughtered. Only five were found in the abattoir,” Mr Masinde said. 

The administrator added that some suspects were arrested and arraigned for theft though the donkey owners opted for an out-of-court settlement.

“These are some of the issues we want explained as they leave a lot to be desired,” the deputy county commissioner added.

In an interview in his office Sunday, the proprietor of the slaughterhouse John Kariuki absolved himself from blame Slaughter Equipment, saying he bought the animals from a supplier who had the necessary documents.

 “To cushion the business from such misfortunes, the management will be demanding a signed and certified agreement letter from the supplier as well as an authorisation letter from the chief,” he said. 

He cited Narok and Suswa as some of the places posing challenges to his business.

During the World Donkey Day, Nakuru Veterinary Services Director Enos Amuyunzu said more than 870 donkeys had been reported missing by May 17.

Dr Amuyunzu said it was common knowledge that there was a very high demand for donkey skin in China.

Donkey theft rose in 2012, with an average 54 animals being slaughtered every month. It caused uproar among owners and residents Slaughter Equipment.

Then, the public health department recorded 32 cases of stolen animals in Naivasha and the surrounding areas.