By Stephen Khaemba, DevReporter, Nakuru County.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS.
- Donkeys often work long hours without adequate food, water, or medical attention.
- Advocates stress the need for better policies to protect donkeys
- A comprehensive approach to sustainable animal welfare and community resilience, in alignment with Sustainable Development Goals.
In the busy rural areas of Nakuru County, donkeys are more than just animals; they are indispensable partners in daily Labor. From carrying heavy water barrels and firewood to hauling construction materials, these resilient animals are vital to the livelihoods of countless families. Despite their invaluable contributions, donkeys are frequently neglected, exploited, and given no care to keep them healthy.
A growing movement of animal rights advocates and veterinarians are working tirelessly to change public attitudes and policies toward these devoted workers.
Unseen Struggles: The Plight of Nakuru’s Donkeys
The daily struggles of donkeys in Nakuru reflect a systemic neglect of these vital animals. According to Molo resident Mary Njeri Mwangi, her family has relied on her 15-year-old donkey, Mamba, to carry water from a far-off river for more than ten years
Donkeys at work; photo: Stephen khaemba.
However, Mamba’s age is starting to show. “I started using donkey in the year 2004, and donkey is a good animal; we named him Mamba. He has been part of our family, and I have educated my family using this animal,” she says. Mamba now has wounds from an ill-fitted harness, and Mary, despite her love for the animal, lacks the resources and knowledge to provide him with proper care. For families like Mary’s, the donkey is more than an animal; it’s a lifeline.
Animal rights advocates and veterinarians like Dr. Samantha Opere of the Kenya Network for Drought Animal Technology (KENDAT) have taken up the mission to raise awareness and provide resources to donkey owners.
At a recent donkey clinic, Opere and her team treated 300 donkeys and offered guidance on how to care for these animals. “We are trying to sensitize donkey owners on how to take care of their donkeys. We check on the health of animals and their feet, removing sharp objects that might have lodged into their hooves,” Opere explains. The goal is to show owners that a healthy donkey, with proper rest and care, can work longer and more efficiently.
The Need for Policy and Protection
Although Kenya has enacted animal welfare laws under Cap 360, enforcement is weak, particularly for domestic work animals like donkeys.
The Animal Welfare Alliance of Kenya, represented by field officer Fred Midikila, has been actively pushing for better policies and enforcement mechanisms in Nakuru. He stresses that under the existing laws, donkeys should not be overloaded, worked while sick, or made to sleep in unfavourable environments. “We urge the people using these animals to follow the laws. Donkeys deserve the same level of respect and care as any other animal,” he emphasizes.
Local authorities in Nakuru are beginning to take notice. According to Leonard Bor, Nakuru’s County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Veterinary Services, the county government is encouraging donkey owners to join cooperatives, which would allow them easier access to resources and veterinary support. “We want to ensure that our farmers are saving something, earning something from this animal. We have invested in bringing donkey farmers into cooperatives to go into value addition,” Bor explains.
Leonard Bor, CECM; Nakuru’s County; photo/ Stephen khaemba.
Innovative Approaches to Donkey Care
Harnesses with poor design are a major source of harm, frequently resulting in excruciating sores on the animals’ backs. “Before this, I didn’t know that my donkey’s harness was hurting him,” said Kakai Wamukota, a donkey owner who recently attended a training. Now I know how to make one that fits well, and my donkey seems happier.”
Donkey owner; photo Stephen khaemba.
In these workshops, participants also learn about basic animal health, feeding practices, and hoof care. Amos Supeet, a trainer with the Donkey Sanctuary Kenya, explains the broader vision: “We are educating owners on the proper use of harnesses and caring for their donkeys’ hooves. We’ll do follow-ups to ensure that the welfare of donkeys is improved.”
The Road Ahead: Building a Culture of Care and Compassion
The recent collaboration among organizations like the Donkey Protection Trust, the Animal Welfare Alliance of Kenya, and government bodies exemplifies the partnerships necessary to create sustainable solutions. Aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those focusing on economic resilience, health, and responsible production, Nakuru County is setting an example of a multifaceted approach to animal welfare that also supports broader societal growth.
