This archive report was first published on 11 September 2019.
Kenya's animal welfare laws are getting a much-needed boost, thanks to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). In a recent warning, the DCI made it clear that anyone found mistreating chickens will face the music.
According to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (Cap.360) Revised Edition 2012 (1983), individuals found guilty of cruelty to domestic birds and animals can expect a fine of up to Sh3,000 or a six-month jail term, or both.
The DCI is particularly targeting individuals who transport chickens and animals, especially goats, in overloaded vehicles or boda bodas to and from the market.
As the DCI tweeted on September 6, 2019, "Section 3 (1) (a) provides that a person shall be guilty of an offence of cruelty if he/she cruelly beats, kicks, ill-treats, over-rides, over-drives, over-loads, tortures, infuriates or terrifies any animal."
