Security beefed up ahead of famous Kimalel goat auction
Some of the goats set to be auctioned during this years edition of the famous Kimalel goat auction in Baringo County on Tuesday. President William Ruto is expected to preside over the 2024 edition of the annual event. Photo/Jeremiah Choge
Security has been beefed up ahead of President William Ruto's visit to Baringo County for the annual Baringo Cultural Fair and Kimalel Goat Auction scheduled for Tuesday.
The President and other top government dignitaries are expected to attend the fete which is aimed at uplifting the living standards of the locals whose main economic mainstay is livestock.
A spot-check by Avdelta News revealed that the venue of the venue at Kimalel grounds was being given the final touches with top security chiefs in the region led by Rift Valley Regional Coordinator Abdi Hassan inspecting the area.
Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi thanked President Ruto for honouring the invite to grace the occasion and urged Kenyans from all walks of life to attend the fete.
"Our goats are naturally salted thanks to the red soils and shrubs they feed on giving it it's uniqueness," said Mr Cheboi who accompanied the security team.
"Baringo's strategic location as the gateway to the North Rift Economic Bloc (NOREB) and its tourism potential cannot be overlooked," added the county boss.
Mr Cheboi also thanked other partners among them the Central Rift Water Works Development Agency for partnership in the provision of water for both domestic and livestock use.
"We can't forget to thank the National government for restoring peace in the region which has seen peace restored in many parts of our county," said Mr Cheboi.
This year's theme of the annual fete is is 'Udamaduni Wetu Mifugo Yetu Utajiri Wetu (Our Culture, Our Livestock, Our Wealthy.
Before the climax of the Cultural Fair on Tuesday, there was a line up of activities on Monday aimed at showcasing the vibrancy, resilience and unity of Baringo's communities.
Key highlights of the festival included Lake Baringo waters sports competition with thrilling boat races and traditional Kaldich rafters.
The day also showcased a vibrant cultural festival at Kimalel featuring the traditional performances, music and exhibitions and a lively youth extravaganza
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 , the project had seen more than Sh50 million raised from the sale of about 31,863 goats, 2,518 sheep and 180 cows.
