President Ruto to preside over Kimalel goat auction
Farmers avail their goats for sale at the famous Kimalel goat auction last year. President William Ruto is expected to preside over this year's edition of the annual event on December 17, 2024. Photo/Jeremiah Choge
All is set for this year's edition of the annual Baringo Cultural Fair and Kimalel Goat Auction with President William Ruto expected to preside over the 10th edition of the event on December 17, 2024.
Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi has called on the residents of the county and neighbouring counties to attend the event and buy goats to enjoy with their families during the festive season.
This year's theme is 'Udamaduni Wetu Mifugo Yetu Utajiri Wetu (Our Culture, Our Livestock, Our Wealthy and it promises a lineup of activities aimed at showcasing the vibrancy, resilience and unity of Baringo's communities.
"We are deeply honoured that the President of Kenya and Commander In-Chief will grace the occasion," said Mr Cheboi in a brief to the media.
Key highlights of the festival include--on December 16 will feature a dynamic number of activities including Lake Baringo waters sports competition with thrilling boat races and traditional Kaldich rafters.
"The day will also showcase a vibrant cultural festival at Kimalel featuring the traditional performances, music and exhibitions and a lively youth extravaganza in the evening," said Governor Cheboi.
"As usual, we want to give the youth an opportunity to showcase their talent and enjoy themselves," he added.
The climax of the event will be on December 17, 2024, where the famous Kimalel goat auction will be held where the President and other high profile dignitaries will attend.
"We are inviting all Kenyans and visitors to participate in this iconic event. Come and experience the best of Baringo's culture, heritage and hospitality," said Governor Cheboi.
More than 3000 goats are expected to be sold during the famous auction from all the 30 wards in the county.
During last year's auction, more than Sh40 million was realized in a record one hour from the sale of more than 3,000 goats with President Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua each buying 500 goats at a total cost of Sh15 million.
The Kimalel goat auction which was started in 1986 was the brainchild of the late retired President Daniel arap Moi and was aimed at improving the living standards of Baringo County residents but the market went under in 2002 after the former president relinquished power.
By the time it collapsed in the 1990s, the project had seen more than Sh50 million raised from the sale of about 31,863 goats, 2,518 sheep and 180 cows.
