More than 50 farmers from Dhiwa Sub-County in Homa Bay County have received rehabilitated donkeys to support their agricultural activities and improve transportation within the region.
Taita Sagala, Country Director of Ripple Effect Kenya, stated, RIPPLE Efect organization in partnership with Brooke East Africa which is a welfare of Animal organization organization have brought donkeys from Naro Moru Town in Nyeri County.
The Animals which have been rehabilitated by the Kenya Society for the Protection and Care of Animals after being confiscated from owners who either mistreated them or were attempting to send them for slaughter.
Sagala emphasized that these donkeys are now finding new homes in Homa Bay County, where farmers have suffered significant losses due to tsetse fly infestations and donkey theft for the illegal donkey hide trade. indicating that with the donkeys, farmers will be able to improve their livelihoods by using them for draught power and transportation
Ripple Effect Kenya has also conducted training sessions for the farmers, educating them on proper donkey welfare and management. “We have sensitized them on the importance of donkeys, and we are hopeful that they will take good care of these animals,” Sagala noted.
Dr. Oduor Charles, Homa Bay County Director of Veterinary Services, expressed the county’s support for the initiative. “The Department of Veterinary Services fully supports this event. We will provide the necessary resources and knowledge to train farmers on proper donkey care. Donkeys often die due to neglect, and by educating the farmers, we aim to ensure these animals remain healthy and serve their owners efficiently for a longer period.”
Farmers in the region expressed their gratitude for the initiative. Samuel Ongango, one of the beneficiaries, shared his joy, saying, “We are proud to receive these donkeys almost free of charge. Many of us lost our animals to tsetse flies and theft. As someone living with a disability, I have relied on donkeys, especially during drought periods, and this initiative will greatly help me.”
Another beneficiary, Faith Rasto, praised the organization for providing them with donkeys, highlighting the hardships they have faced since losing their animals. “Diseases and theft had left us struggling without donkeys, which are essential for our daily activities. This initiative is a great relief to us,” she said.
