This archive report was first published on 6 November 2019.
Kenya: NEMA Shuts Karatina Slaughterhouse, Butchers Protest ¶
On November 6, 2019, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) shut down a slaughterhouse in Karatina town, Nyeri County, due to environmental concerns.
The closure was directed by NEMA's acting Director General, Mamo B Mamo, in a letter to the Nyeri County government.
Butchers in Karatina have protested the closure, claiming it will kill their business, especially during the upcoming December festive season when meat sales are high.
"We feel that the move by NEMA is instigated by private slaughterhouses which expect to benefit from the closure especially when we are approaching the month of December when we expect to make better sales," said Joseph Wakabai, a spokesman for the butchers.
More than 400 meat traders in Karatina town and its environs are likely to be affected by the closure of the facility, which is the largest in Nyeri County.
Residents are hesitant to buy meat whose source is not clear, an issue that could negatively affect meat trade in the area.
"I have not bought any meat since I heard about the closure of the government-owned slaughter house. I can't risk my family's health because I'm not sure whether the meat is inspected or not," said Patrick Wachira Mumbi, a resident.
