Somali community in Lamu expresses concerns over exclusion from livestock trade

Somali community in Lamu expresses concerns over exclusion from livestock trade

The leaders further implored the government to involve them more in the livestock export trade that is regionally facilitated by the Lamu port, saying that they feel left out despite their proximity to the harbor.

The Somali community living in Lamu County has called on the government to involve them more in the livestock trade that is exported to foreign countries through the Lamu port.

Speaking at the Lamu pastoralist conference, which brought together national and county government leaders, including interim Agriculture CS Aden Duale and County Governor Issa Timamy, the community's leaders complained that they have been deprived of pasture for their cattle in the Mpeketoni and Magongonibada areas due to the confiscated land.

"As pastoralists, we are among the main contributors of value to the Lamu economy. As such, we do not understand why the government has invaded the grazing corridor that provides pasture to our livestock," said nominated MCA Asha Abdulrahman.

The leaders further implored the government to involve them more in the livestock export trade that is regionally facilitated by the Lamu port, saying that they feel left out despite their proximity to the harbour.

"We are very disheartened that our local animals have been left out of the livestock export trade at the expense of livestock from other parts of the country like Kajiado and even other countries like Ethiopia. We should be the ones given priority due to our proximity," stated Senior Cooperative Officer Ahmed Hassan.

Despite their challenges, the community welcomed the government's national livestock vaccination campaign that was announced by President William Ruto in November last year, saying they are ready to collaborate with the state to eradicate diseases among their 100,000 heads of cattle.

On his part, interim Agriculture CS Aden Duale watered down concerns about the vaccination having an adverse effect on the animals while calling on government officials to provide sufficient feeding grounds for pastoralists.

"We want the national vaccination campaign for our livestock to begin here in Lamu County. However, as we do our part to eradicate diseases, local authorities must adhere to the constitution by providing and preserving grazing land for our pastoralists," said Duale.

Stay ahead of the news! Click ‘Yes, Thanks’ to receive breaking stories and exclusive updates directly to your device. Be the first to know what’s happening.