This archive report was first published on 11 September 2019.
On September 11, 2019, the Kenya Society for the Protection & Care of Animals (KSPCA) issued a statement on Twitter clarifying the origin of a disturbing video circulating on social media.
The video, which shows donkeys being hit on the head at a slaughterhouse, was not filmed in Kenya as previously claimed, but rather in Tanzania several years ago.
According to KSPCA, the video led to the closure of the slaughterhouse and a complete ban on donkey slaughter in Tanzania.
Contrary to the claims made by some Kenyans who shared the video online, KSPCA stated that livestock in Kenya are slaughtered in a humane manner, with regular inspections and training for slaughterhouse staff.
However, the video shows two men dressed in white carrying captive bolt pistols and hammering the donkeys in an enclosed compound, with some donkeys already dead in a pool of blood.
Many Kenyans who shared the video online condemned the men's actions, calling for their arrest.
"This is revolting. You do not treat animals that cannot defend themselves in such manner. Every faith advocates for quick and painless death for an animal. No wonder we are faced with so many challenges as a country," said Mohammed Hersi, who shared the video from one Mohamed Bulle.
