- Senator Catherine Mumma questions the decision’s justification.
- Senate committee to assess due process and scientific backing.
- Concerns over public participation and Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) involvement.
- Economic viability and impact on food security under review.
Senate Inquiry into Water Buffalo Classification
The Senate Standing Committee on Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries has been tasked with investigating Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe’s decision to classify the domesticated water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) as a food animal.
Nominated Senator Catherine Mumma has raised concerns over the move and is demanding a detailed statement addressing:
- Justification – What informed the classification of water buffalo as a food animal?
- Due process – Did the Ministry follow legal and regulatory procedures?
- Scientific backing – Was the decision based on credible statistical research?
- Public participation – Were farmers and key stakeholders consulted?
- KWS involvement – What role did the Kenya Wildlife Service play, and what were its research findings?
Additionally, the committee must provide:
- Data on water buffalo population in Kenya and its expected growth.
- Analysis of the economic viability of water buffalo farming.
- Potential impact on Kenya’s food security and the broader economy.
Mutahi Kagwe’s Declaration
On January 31, 2025, CS Mutahi Kagwe formally classified the domesticated water buffalo as a food animal through a gazette notice, citing Section 2 of the Meat Control Act.
“In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 2 of the Meat Control Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development declares the domesticated water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) as a food animal for the purposes of the Act,” the notice read.
This means water buffalo can now be legally bred, slaughtered, and processed for meat in Kenya.
The Senate’s findings will determine whether the decision aligns with Kenya’s agricultural policies, economic strategies, and public interests.
