The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Donkey owners in Kirinyaga County are increasingly worried about the escalating theft and slaughter of donkeys in the area.
James Kibwana, secretary of the Donkey Owners Association for the Mt Kenya region, reported that Mwea constituency is among the worst affected, with thefts occurring primarily at night. Over the past month, more than 30 donkeys have been stolen.
Kibwana explained, “The stolen animals are often skinned, and sometimes their carcasses are left in the bushes. We are experiencing thefts of up to six donkeys per week. If this continues, we could see up to 800 donkeys stolen.”
Stephen Muriuki, whose three donkeys were found slaughtered with their carcasses abandoned along the Mwea-Embu road, noted that the thieves are now targeting donkey skins rather than meat.
“Previously, the thieves targeted the meat, but now they are after the skins,” Muriuki said.
Hillary Murimi added that many local residents rely on donkeys for their livelihoods, particularly in the Mwea rice irrigation scheme. The rise in thefts is significantly impacting their economic stability and daily lives.
“Donkeys are crucial to our families’ well-being and have both economic and social importance. They alleviate physical and financial burdens,” Murimi stated.
