Baringo residents protest reopening of slaughterhouse, cite rising cases of donkey theft

The group marched through the streets of the Maji Mazuri area, saying that the reopening will lead to a surge in theft.

Samuel Kiragu, an elder from the Lembus community, said the area had experienced a decrease in donkey theft after the slaughterhouse was closed and the gains could be erased with the reopening.

He added that the theft and sale of donkey meat was seen as a curse in the community.

Josephine Kinangai, an activist, said, "The animals make an invaluable contribution to households as beasts of burden and a source of transport that adds to the livelihoods of families."

Henry Mbatia, another protester, said, "Donkeys are made by God and should not be killed."

Residents said cases of donkey theft had led to the emergence of community disputes.