Nominated Senator Catherine Mumma has petitioned the House to provide a justification for the declaration of domesticated water buffalo as a food animal in the country.
In a statement on the floor of the House, Mumma wants the Committee on Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries to state whether due process was followed in the process.
She also wants to know whether the decision by Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe was based on statistical data supporting the classification of the water buffalo as a food-source animal.
“The committee should further explain whether the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development facilitated public participation on the matter,” Mumma said in her statement.
Additionally, the Committee chaired by Bungoma Senator David Wakoli has also been tasked to provide details on the involvement of the Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) in research leading to the declaration.
“It should disclose the period and findings of the research as well as the participating farms and report on the availability of sustainable supply of domesticated water buffalo in Kenya, stating their current population and the projected annual population growth,” it reads.
Mumma also wants an explanation on the economic viability of the animal as a local food source and its potential contribution to Kenya's food security and the broader national economy.
Kagwe declared the animal food source through Gazette Notice No. 977 of January 31, 2025.
A food animal is an animal that is raised for its meat, milk, or eggs.
“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 purposes of the Act,” the notice reads.
Water Buffalo are a different breed from what is seen in national parks in parts of Africa, including Kenya.
What is seen on Safari are called Cape Buffalo (also known as southern savanna buffalo) are wild, while Water Buffalos are domesticated and are mostly found along the Nile and in Asia.
They, however, have the same looks.
According to Kruger Park, a bull matures at eight years old and can weigh up to 900 kilograms.
“By then their horns are massive. They can weigh up to 900kg (1984 pounds) and grown bulls can stand up to a height of 1.7m and can reach a length of 3.4m.”
Buffaloes have a reputation for lying in wait for pursuers and charging at the last minute. Old bulls that have left the herd tend to be the more aggressive.
Water buffaloes are especially suitable for tilling rice fields, and their milk is richer in fat and protein than that of dairy cattle.
Buffalo meat is leaner than beef, with lower fat and cholesterol levels, making it a healthier alternative.
It is also rich in protein, iron, and essential nutrients.
In some places, it is marketed as premium or speciality meat, particularly for making sausages, burgers, and traditional dishes.
