Farmers in Kitui county have been urged not to sell their donkeys, as the essence of using a donkey to make money as a beast of burden is more profitable than selling the same animal for slaughter.
In a sensitization organized by Caritas Kitui in collaboration with Brooke East Africa, farmers from Mwingi and its environs were taught various ways of handling donkeys and a free treatment clinic was provided to all their animals which had health issues.
The campaign which has been branded Donkey Friendly Housing Initiative Campaign 2020, is aimed at ensuring that just like other animals, donkeys are well taken care off at home just like other domestic animals.
Elijah Mengi, a donkey farmer says that since childhood, a donkey has been very crucial in his development as to date, he relies on donkeys for his daily bread.
Mengi thanked Caritas Kitui for coming to the rescue of donkey farmers in Kitui, following rampant theft of the animal for slaughter and hides trade.
Syombua Malaki, another farmer from Waita in Mwingi, urged farmers not to sell their donkeys as they are of immense help to them when alive compared to when they are sold for meet.
Peter Gathayo, veterinary officer who was leading the donkey clinic said that more than 30 donkeys with serious medical conditions were treated and more than 50 others were dewormed.
Mr. Gathayo pointed out that just like other domestic animals, donkeys needed proper medical care and nutrition to enable them work well.
Donald Kituku, the Caritas Kitui officer in charge of the donkey campaign said that the campaign is aimed at discouraging farmers from selling their donkeys for slaughter and to take good care of them.
Kituku said that the importance of donkeys in arid areas couldn’t be ignored, as according to research a single donkey saves a family more than sh. 395 every single day.