How technology is helping protect donkeys from theft in Kisumu, Siaya
Donkeys in Kisumu and Siaya counties are benefiting from a new identification system aimed at curbing theft, improving animal healthcare and protecting the livelihoods of families that depend on the animals. The technology, which involves registering donkeys and assigning each animal a unique identification card, is helping communities track the animals and improve their care. […]
In Kisumu and Siaya counties, donkeys are receiving enhanced protection and care through a new identification system designed to deter theft and enhance animal healthcare. This technology involves registering each donkey and issuing a unique identification card, allowing communities to monitor and safeguard the animals. Donkeys have long been vital in rural areas, used for transporting goods and supporting household incomes, but they have often suffered neglect, mistreatment, and theft.
In Kaborwa village, Nyakach, Kisumu County, Dorothy Peter exemplifies the growing appreciation for donkey welfare. Peter has named her donkeys, treating them as cherished family members, and regularly interacting with them. She ensures their well-being by providing food and treats, emphasizing the strong bond between donkey owners and their animals.
Since 2022, residents in the region have received training on donkey welfare, including handling, healthcare, and theft prevention. This identification system enables the community to recognize registered donkeys and facilitates timely veterinary care when animals fall ill. Pauline Onyango, who once faced a critical eye condition in one of her donkeys named Pamela, underscores the significance of early veterinary intervention to prevent animal suffering.
Managed in collaboration with community members, this programme fosters awareness and proactive care for donkeys. Tropical Initiatives in Poverty Alleviation (STIPA) CEO Pamela Opiyo highlighted the success of the community-led approach, noting that residents now take pride in protecting their donkeys, each bearing a registration card.
The initiative has registered 363 donkeys in Kisumu and Siaya counties, marking progress in enhancing their safety and welfare. For households dependent on donkeys for transportation and livelihoods, safeguarding these animals also means protecting their economic security. This shift in perception reflects a growing acknowledgment of donkeys' economic value and the necessity of providing them with appropriate care.
Written by urgent.news from People Daily Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
