In a bid to address the growing concerns surrounding the welfare of donkeys and the illegal activities associated with them, a cross-border meeting was recently held in Moroto, Uganda. The gathering brought together chiefs from Kenya and LC3 officials from Uganda, marking a significant step toward addressing these communities’ pressing issues.
The meeting, which proved to be a vital platform for collaboration and information sharing, saw the participation of nine chiefs from Kenya and five LC3 representatives from Uganda. The central focus of this conference was to shed light on the emerging trends in donkey welfare, particularly highlighting the issues of theft, illegal slaughter, and smuggling.
Key observations made during the meeting revealed a complex web of challenges that affect both sides of the border. Here are some notable takeaways:
Thriving Donkey Market in Kaatikekile-Kosuroi: It was observed that there is a flourishing donkey market in Kaatikekile-Kosuroi, Uganda. This market serves as a hub for the trade and exchange of donkeys.
Cross-Border Donkey Supply: The donkey market in Uganda is receiving a significant supply of donkeys from neighboring regions in Kenya, specifically West Pokot and Baringo, through Turkana East and South sub-counties. This cross-border flow of animals contributes to the complexity of the issue.
Conflict Over Donkey Theft: The theft and smuggling of donkeys across the Kenya-Uganda border have ignited conflicts among communities residing along the border. This poses not only a threat to the welfare of the animals but also to community harmony.
Stolen Livestock Hidden in Loborkocho: The Loborkocho settlement between Uganda and Kenya was identified as a location where stolen livestock, including donkeys, are hidden, further fueling the illegal trade.
Slaughter Point in Lodapaspusia: Along the Kenya-Uganda border, Lodapaspusia has become a slaughter point for donkeys before their hides are transported to Kenya. This step in the supply chain highlights the need for cross-border cooperation.
Suspected Stolen Donkeys Market in Moroto: Uganda, especially Moroto, has become a market where suspected stolen donkeys are sold and bought by smugglers, exacerbating the issue.
In response to these pressing concerns, the chiefs and LC3 officials at the meeting committed to working collaboratively to curb donkey theft (DHT) and smuggling across the border. Additionally, Kenyan chiefs and other stakeholders will continue advocating for legislation prohibiting the sale of donkey hides.
To further address the problem at its roots, the Chiefs’ forum plans to sensitize the communities on the issues of donkey-hide trade, theft, and smuggling across the border. Moreover, local councils in Uganda and chiefs in Kenya intend to develop communal regulations aimed at curbing the donkey hide trade and illegal slaughter in the bush.
This cross-border meeting represents a significant step toward protecting the welfare of donkeys and fostering cooperation between neighboring communities. By addressing the challenges associated with donkey theft and smuggling, the participants aim to create a safer and more harmonious environment for all those living along the Kenya-Uganda border.
