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By Isabella Maua
Farmers have been challenged to care equally for all animals without neglecting others by viewing them as less beneficial.
Speaking during the World Animal Day celebrations at Chepkube in Mt. Elgon Sub County,Dr. Joseph Ogolla, Bungoma Deputy County Director of Veterinary Services, emphasized the day’s theme: Great or small, love them all.
“First, we are grateful to Ripple Effect for organizing this colorful event and appreciate all farmers who’ve graced this occasion. The key is to change our attitude towards our domestic animals and give them favorable living conditions so that we benefit fully from them,” said Dr. Ogolla.
On his part, Dr. Peter Ng’ielo of Ripple Effect advised farmers to practice sustainable agriculture so as to mitigate adverse weather conditions.
“We should ensure we are food secure so that when El Nino comes, we have enough food for our families and animals too,” mentioned Dr. Ng’ielo.
Dr. Wechabe Simiyu, Sub County Veterinary Officer Tongaren, reiterated that they’re promoting the welfare of animals by encouraging farmers to raise them in a welfare-friendly manner so that they’re able to serve them in a more productive manner,” said Dr. Simiyu.
George Okoko of Ripple Effect divulged that their partnership with Brooke East Africa and other stakeholders is to acknowledge the contribution of donkeys to livelihoods and generally the economy of this country.
The event, which enabled farmers to learn both crop farming and animal keeping at the Kibagenge self-help group in Chepkube, was organized by Ripple Effect in partnership with Brooke East Africa, Kenya Veterinary Association, as well as the county governments of Bungoma and Homa Bay.