Brooke: IGAD Regional Conference on Donkey Skin Trade – Concept Paper

This concept paper outlines a two-day regional conference in Nairobi organised to examine the growing trade in donkey skins and its impacts across countries in the Horn of Africa. The document explains that the meeting will bring together government officials, community representatives, livestock authorities, humanitarian and conservation organisations, and stakeholders involved in the donkey trade. It describes the purpose of the conference as facilitating dialogue and awareness on the short- and long-term consequences of the trade for donkey populations, livelihoods, and national economies. The paper summarises concerns about rising slaughter rates, illegal activities, cross-border movement of animals, environmental impacts of slaughter operations, and risks to animal welfare. It also explains that discussions aim to inform policy and legislative measures addressing the trade in the region.