Famous Kimalel goat auction reopens after a decade

Baringo County will Thursday re-open a goat auction that was famous during retired President Daniel arap Moi’s regime when who-was-who in the public and private sector competed in making the highest bids.

The Kimalel Goat Auction, which started in 1986 but went quiet in 2002 when the former president relinquished power, has been renamed Kimalel Culture Fair and Goat Auction as the county seeks to enhance its tourist offerings.

At least 2,000 goats would be sold in the public sale, which is scheduled for between December 19 and 21, with proceeds going to pay school fees for needy children.

The event will be presided over by President Uhuru Kenyatta, with retired President Moi and former nominated MP Ezekiel Barngetuny among the guests.

Baringo County Governor Benjamin Cheboi said that before the cultural fair, there will be road races, music competition and boat races where winners will be rewarded.

“The first day and second day have been set aside for the show casing of the diverse rich culture of our people and sporting activities. The third day which is the climax will be the opening of the auction which will be presided over by the President,” said Mr Cheboi.

Livestock farmers who depended on the auction as source of livelihood have welcomed the county government’s initiative as a step forward.

Jackson Songol, 50, recalls vividly the last auction in 2002 when he pocketed more than Sh200, 000 after selling 50 of his goats during the public sale.

“We were very rich by then. Besides enjoy a sumptuous Christmas, we could cater for our family’s needs like school fees without any difficulty besides saving some money for future use,” said Mr Songol.

@wsang08