Three Counties in Kenya Brand Livestock to Combat Cattle Rustling

Faced with a persistent problem of cattle rustling, three neighboring counties in Kenya have joined forces to implement a mandatory livestock branding program. This initiative, targeting a total of 19 wards across West Pokot, Baringo, and Elgeyo Marakwet counties, aims to deter theft and streamline recovery efforts.

The program restricts the sale and movement of unbranded livestock in designated wards. These include Tapach, Lelan, Batei, Lomut, and Masool in West Pokot; Tirioko, Kolowa, Silale, Saimo Soy, Bartabwa, Ilchamus, Mukutani, Ribko, and Churo in Baringo; and Kapyego, Sambirir, Arror, Embobut-Embolot, and Endo in Elgeyo Marakwet.

This collaborative effort is spearheaded by the governors of the three counties. Their technical teams have developed a branding system that incorporates the county, sub-county, ward, and the specific location where the animal was branded.

In a joint statement issued during a meeting in Iten, Governors Simon Kachapin, Benjamin Cheboi, and Wisley Rotich emphasized their commitment to the program. They announced a ban on movement permits for unbranded cattle, highlighting their collaboration with the national government to achieve comprehensive branding.

To ensure easy identification of stolen livestock, each county will utilize unique branding codes. A working committee, led by Elgeyo Marakwet’s Deputy Governor, Prof. Grace Cheserek, is overseeing the initiative and has appealed to partners for their support.

The implementation of this standardized branding system marks a significant step towards addressing a longstanding issue in the region. By deterring theft, simplifying livestock recovery, and protecting the livelihoods of residents, this program has the potential to bring much-needed stability to the affected counties.