This archive report was first published on 11 September 2019.
Kenya has taken a significant step towards protecting its animal population, with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) warning against the mistreatment of chickens.
According to the DCI, individuals found guilty of cruelty to animals, including chickens, can face a fine not exceeding Sh3,000 or a jail term not exceeding six months, or both.
The warning comes as part of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act Chapter 360 Revised Edition 2012, which states that a person shall be guilty of an offence of cruelty if they cruelly beat, kick, ill-treat, over-ride, over-drive, over-load, torture, infuriate, or terrify any animal.
Notably, the DCI has specifically targeted bodaboda riders and matatu crew, who have been identified as notorious for mishandling chickens while transporting them.
It's worth noting that the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act Chapter 360 Revised Edition 2012 has been in place since 1983, and the DCI's warning serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding animal welfare in Kenya.
Related to this issue is the Animal Welfare Bill 2018 proposed by the Nakuru County government, which aimed to introduce tougher penalties for animal cruelty, including fines of up to Sh200,000 or two years in jail.
