Donkeys in Lamu/HANDOUT
A pioneering study by the University of Portsmouth has demonstrated that theatre can be a powerful tool for improving the welfare of working donkeys in communities that rely on them.
Conducted in collaboration with The Donkey Sanctuary, the Lamu Arts and Theatre Alliance (LATA), and local donkey owners, this research is the first to explore how performance-based education can raise awareness about donkey care and well-being.
In Lamu, Kenya, donkeys are a crucial part of everyday life, serving as the primary means of transport in an area with limited motorized vehicles.
Despite their importance, these animals often endure harsh working conditions, including overloading, inadequate medical care, and extreme environmental exposure.
To address these challenges, researchers introduced forum theatre—an interactive performance style that engages audiences in problem-solving and decision-making—helping to reshape attitudes towards donkey welfare.
The plays, developed with input from LATA and donkey owners, depicted the struggles of a family whose livelihood depended on their donkeys.
By showcasing common welfare concerns, the performances encouraged audiences to propose and discuss solutions, fostering a deeper understanding of responsible donkey care. Dr. Emily Haddy, Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Portsmouth, highlighted theatre’s ability to create lasting impact: “Theatre has a unique way of engaging people on an emotional level. Our research found that after watching these performances, audience members—especially young people—showed significant improvement in their understanding of donkey sentiment and welfare needs. This demonstrates the power of arts-based education in inspiring meaningful behavioral change.”
Said Hassan, Director and Founder of LATA, explained how the performances sparked community action: “We bring real-life issues to the stage, such as donkeys not receiving medical attention or being overworked. The audience then participates by offering solutions, making the message more personal and memorable. This method strengthens the community’s commitment to better donkey care.”
The study’s findings were overwhelmingly positive, with more than 85 per cent of adult participants agreeing that the performances increased their awareness of donkey health and welfare.
Additionally, young viewers displayed a stronger understanding that donkeys feel pain, along with greater empathy and confidence in identifying signs of distress in the animals.
This shift in perception among younger generations signals hope for a future where donkeys receive the care and respect they deserve.
Dr. Solomon Onyango, Country Director of The Donkey Sanctuary, Kenya, praised the initiative’s success: “This project has placed donkey welfare at the center of community conversations. Engaging young minds through the arts is a significant step towards ensuring a lasting, positive impact on donkey treatment.”
Since 1987, The Donkey Sanctuary has been at the forefront of improving donkey welfare in Kenya by providing healthcare, vaccinations, and guidance to donkey owners.
The organization’s broader mission extends worldwide, promoting donkey welfare through advocacy, education, and direct support.
As part of its commitment to protecting donkeys, The Donkey Sanctuary continues to lead the ‘Stop the Slaughter’ campaign—the largest initiative in its history aimed at safeguarding donkeys from mistreatment and exploitation.
Supporters can contribute by staying informed and donating to ensure a better future for donkeys globally.
