A recent study by the National Crime Research Centre, published on July 30, 2026, has unveiled the growing problem of donkey theft in Kenya, linking it directly to the international market for donkey skin gelatin, known as ejiao.
The report highlights that stolen donkeys are often slaughtered swiftly in secluded areas, with criminals harvesting only the valuable skins used in ejiao production, while discarding the carcasses. This has led to an increase in clandestine operations, where perpetrators conduct illegal slaughter in mobile bush locations and transport donkeys in small groups to avoid detection.
Counties Most Affected
- Mwingi East
- Mwingi Central
- Kiambu
- Machakos
- Kajiado
These counties have been identified as hotspots for donkey theft and illegal slaughter activities, posing significant challenges to rural communities that rely on donkeys for transportation and livelihood support.
The report further notes the organized and adaptive nature of this illicit trade network, which continues to threaten the welfare and economic stability of affected populations.
