RIPPLE Efect organization in partnership with Brooke East Africa, have given More than 50 farmers from Dhiwa Sub-County in Homa Bay County rehabilitated donkeys.
The Donkeys, brought from Naro Moru Town in Nyeri County, aim to support agricultural activities and improve transportation within the Homa Bay region.
The Animals, have been rehabilitated by the Kenya Society for the Protection and Care of Animals after being confiscated from owners who either mistreated them or were attempting to send them for slaughter.
Homa Bay County Director of Veterinary Services, expressed the county’s support for the initiative.
“The Department of Veterinary Services fully supports this event. We will provide the necessary resources and knowledge to train farmers on proper donkey care. Donkeys often die due to neglect, and by educating the farmers, we aim to ensure these animals remain healthy and serve their owners efficiently for a longer period.” said Dr. Oduor.
Ripple Effect Kenya has also conducted training sessions for the farmers, educating them on proper donkey welfare and management.
“We have sensitized them on the importance of donkeys, and we are hopeful that they will take good care of these animals,” Taita Sagala, Country Director of Ripple Effect Kenya, stated.
“We are proud to receive these donkeys almost free of charge. Many of us lost our animals to tsetse flies and theft. As someone living with a disability, I have relied on donkeys, especially during drought periods, and this initiative will greatly help me.” A farmer in the region expressed gratitude.
The donkeys are now finding new homes in Homa Bay County, where farmers have suffered significant losses due to tsetse fly infestations and donkey theft for the illegal donkey hide trade. With the donkeys, farmers will be able to improve their livelihoods by using them for draught power and transportation.
In other news, Farmers in Homa Bay County have been urged to practice modern farming methods to boost production.
Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Agency Chairman Odoyo Owidi told farmers to use certified seeds and fertilizers this planting season to promote food security.
He noted that Homa Bay County has a huge potential for production of crops for subsistence and marketing.
He however noted that if the farmers fail to use the certified seeds and fertilizers, the county may get poor harvests.
He spoke today during a sensitization meeting that brought together farmers and the business community in Rangwe Sub-county.
Also present was the board member of Kenya Medical Supplies Agency Hesborn Omollo.
Omollo echoed Odoyo's sentiments saying embracing sound agricultural practices will enable the farmers to acquire high crop yields.
“Proper use of certified seeds and fertilizers will enable our farmers to get good harvests. Let us consider modern farming techniques to enable us to achieve good harvests,” Omollo said.
He explained that the government has a robust programme of providing fertilizers to farmers at subsidised costs.
Omollo told the farmers to register for the fertilizers to enable them to benefit.
“Let us register for the subsidized fertilizers which the government offers. This will enable us to get high crop yields,” he added.
The official said farming is a key economic activity that can transform the livelihood of residents.
He stressed that farming is a key source of employment which should not be underrated. Omollo told youth not to fear farming.
“Let our young not fear farming. Farming is an economic activity which has made many people millionaires in our country today. Let us do it with passion,” Omollo said.
