Nakuru Rolls Out Tough Animal Welfare Measures To Safeguard Livestock Value Chain

By Elijah Cherutich

Nakuru’s livestock sector could see significant gains following the enforcement of a new welfare law, with authorities linking humane animal treatment to stronger food systems and enhanced farmer resilience.

County Government of Nakuru chief officer for Livestock Dr. Michael Cheruiyot warned that individuals involved in animal mistreatment and cruelty will face severe punishment under the newly enforced Nakuru County Animal Welfare Act 2021.

Speaking in Soilo during the official receipt of the law, Dr. Cheruiyot said cases of poor handling of animals have been widespread, compromising the safety, health, and overall wellbeing of livestock across the county.

He noted that the legislation introduces clear standards and enforcement measures aimed at streamlining the livestock sector and ensuring animals are handled humanely, particularly during transport, trading, and day-to-day farm management practices.

“Some people carry these animals like chicken and even goats in a manner that affects their health and so we want to ensure that the manner of handling animals is improved,” he said.

The law, which took a decade to develop, emerged from sustained advocacy by stakeholders, particularly donkey farmers who had raised concerns over rampant theft and widespread mistreatment of working animals.

Farming Systems of Kenya Executive Director Kenneth Wamuga said the new legislation reflects years of frustration within the sector and marks a turning point in efforts to improve animal welfare and protect farmer livelihoods.

He added that collaboration among stakeholders played a critical role in shaping the law, ensuring it addresses real challenges faced by farmers while opening opportunities to improve animal husbandry practices across Nakuru County.

“We are happy to hand over the new act to the county government, and this heralds a new phase for animals as we gear up towards giving them better support,” he said.

Nakuru County Assembly Chair of Agriculture Isabella Makori said the county will intensify public awareness campaigns to educate farmers on humane treatment of animals and help them comply with the new legal requirements.

Makori emphasized that sensitization efforts will be key in preventing violations, noting that farmers must understand both the ethical and legal implications of animal cruelty as enforcement of the law takes effect.