The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has issued an urgent public warning following a major bushmeat seizure in Gikambura, Kiambu County.
The agency cautioned that the illegal handling, sale, and consumption of bushmeat not only constitutes a serious wildlife crime but also exposes unsuspecting consumers to significant public health and legal risks.
In a statement released on February 25, 2026, KWS highlighted the growing illegal bushmeat trade in parts of the country and called on Kenyans to remain vigilant.
Zebra Meat Worth Over 2,000 Kilograms Raises Alarm
On the morning of February 25, 2026, KWS officers working within a multi-agency team conducted an intelligence-led operation targeting suspected bushmeat activities in Gikambura, located in Kiambu County.
Follow-up enforcement operations were also carried out at Dagoretti Market in Nairobi.
During the operation, officers recovered six sacks of suspected de-boned zebra meat, one fully skinned zebra carcas and fifteen frozen meat packages weighing approximately 250 grams each.
Authorities estimate the total consignment at approximately 2,000 kilograms of meat, plus an additional 7.5 kilograms of packaged frozen meat. Four suspects were arrested, and investigations remain ongoing.
Legal Implications Under Kenyan Law
KWS emphasized that Kenyan law strictly prohibits wildlife-related offenses without lawful authority.
Under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, Cap 376, it is illegal to kill, possess, transport, or trade in wildlife products without proper authorization.
Additionally, Section 131(2) of the Public Health Act, Cap 242, bans the sale or distribution of uninspected meat intended for human consumption. Offenders risk severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Public Health Risks of Bushmeat Consumption
Beyond legal consequences, KWS warned that bushmeat poses serious health risks.
Unlike licensed meat processed through regulated veterinary systems, bushmeat is not subjected to veterinary inspection, lacks hygiene and safety standards, is often handled in unsanitary conditions and does not follow proper cold-chain management
Improper slaughtering, storage, and preparation significantly increase the risk of zoonotic diseases, illnesses transmitted from animals to humans.
Consumers may unknowingly expose themselves and their families to dangerous infections.
The Kenya Wildlife Service has urged members of the public to report wildlife poaching or illegal bushmeat trade through official reporting channels.
As investigations continue, authorities are warning traders and consumers alike that participating in the bushmeat trade carries heavy legal and health consequences.
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