Mombasa: Goat traders in Mombasa are facing mounting challenges ahead of the annual Eid al-Adha festivities, as prolonged rains and rising livestock prices significantly disrupt business operations.
According to Kenya News Agency, Abdul Habshi, a long-time livestock trader operating in Kikowani, reported that the ongoing rains have disrupted transportation and supply chains, especially for goats sourced from upcountry counties. "The rains have made it difficult to transport goats from other counties. Prices have increased drastically, making it harder for sellers to conduct business as usual," said Habshi.
This year's market has recorded a noticeable spike in demand compared to the past two years. However, traders report that the increase in demand has not translated into profits due to inflated costs and logistical setbacks. "In previous years, goats were relatively affordable. We used to sell them at around Sh15,000, but now we are selling them at Sh10,000 because the prices have gone up while the customer's purchasing power remains low," Habshi noted.
To sustain their businesses, some traders have resorted to taking loans, with concerns mounting over their ability to repay the loans amidst dwindling sales. "I had to take a loan to finance my livestock purchases. Now I have to repay the debt, but the business environment is making it difficult to stay afloat," he added.
Despite the losses, traders are committed to ensuring quality livestock reaches customers during this festive season. Injured animals, often affected during transit, are retained for personal consumption, while healthy goats are offered for sale. "We consume the goats that are injured during transportation and only sell the healthy ones to customers," said Habshi.
Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the two major Islamic festivals observed worldwide. Celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijja, the final month of the Islamic calendar, the holiday commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. In observance of this event, Muslims traditionally perform the ritual slaughter of livestock, primarily goats, sheep, and cows, as an act of devotion and charity. The meat is shared among family, friends, and the needy.