Bomet: Farmers in Sosur village, Longisa Ward, Bomet East Sub-County, Bomet County have received crucial training on donkey welfare during a sensitization exercise organized under the Tunza Punda initiative by Farming System Kenya (FSK).
According to Kenya News Agency, the program, which attracted tens of farmers, sought to equip locals with knowledge and skills on proper donkey care, including deworming, feeding, and spraying against parasites. Residents of Bomet County are known to be reliant on donkeys as beasts of burden.
FSK veterinary officer Samwel Chege, who is based in Bomet and Narok counties, underscored the lack of awareness among many farmers on donkey management. "Farmers here had no information about how to keep donkeys. We are here to impart knowledge and skills to ensure these animals are well taken care of," said Chege.
Chege also raised concern over rabies disease cases in Chepalungu and Bomet East, urging the county government to intensify dog vaccination campaigns. "The region has been on the spot for rabies which also affects donkeys. We are calling upon the county government to prioritize treatment and vaccination of dogs to safeguard both animals and humans," he added.
On the issue of donkey trafficking that has been rampant in the county, Chege noted that the rampant illegal trade in donkey meat had reduced over the past year due to joint efforts with security agencies. "For the last one year, the illegal business of donkey meat has been contained through security sensitization," he said.
Longisa-based veterinary practitioner Shaphan Cheruiyot, a trainee with Brooke East Africa who led the training, called for collaboration between farmers and vets. "We urge farmers to cooperate with vets in keeping donkeys healthy through regular deworming, spraying, and proper feeding," Cheruiyot said.
He further emphasized the correct use of chemicals in donkey care, warning farmers against using harmful ones. "Farmers should use organophosphates such as Steladone, and synthetic pyrethroids, and avoid chemicals like Amitrax which are unsafe for donkeys," he explained.
Local farmers welcomed the initiative, expressing gratitude for the new knowledge. Sharon Rotich, a beneficiary of the program, said the exercise had transformed how she handles her animals. "I wasn't aware that donkeys need such care. I am happy that my four donkeys have been treated well, and now I know how to take care of them better," Rotich said.
The Tunza Punda initiative, supported by FSK and Brooke East Africa, aims to promote donkey welfare across the county, ensuring the animals, which play a vital role in rural livelihoods, are healthy, productive, and protected.