President William Ruto led senior government officials and political allies at the annual Kimalel Goat Auction and Cultural Festival in Baringo County, an event aimed at supporting pastoralist communities through direct livestock purchases ahead of the Christmas season.
The festival, a long-standing initiative, provides a ready market for local farmers and ensures proceeds go directly to pastoralists, bypassing middlemen. Government officials clarified that participation was voluntary, addressing circulating claims that staff were ordered to buy livestock.
Thousands of Goats Sold, Millions Raised
Officials collectively purchased thousands of goats during the auction, raising over Sh82 million, with each goat sold at a standard price of Sh13,000.
Several senior government officials made large individual purchases:
- Head of Public Service Felix Koskei – 200 goats
- National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah – 300 goats
- Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot – 300 goats
Other Cabinet and Principal Secretaries purchased between 100 and 200 goats each.
Deputy President Kindiki’s Contribution
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki contributed significantly, purchasing 500 goats valued at Sh6.5 million. Though he did not attend the event in person, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku represented him and completed the purchases, citing that Kindiki was unwell.
“Naibu wa Rais hasikii vizuri sana. Ameniambia nikifika nilete salamu zake,” Ruku said.
Kimalel Auction: Empowering Pastoralists
Introduced during the presidency of the late Daniel arap Moi, the Kimalel Goat Auction is designed to empower pastoralist communities economically, allowing farmers to sell livestock directly to buyers. The initiative helps boost local income and strengthens the livelihoods of pastoralist families.
