BY VICTORIA AMUNGA | 5484 MEDIA | KENYA
STORY HIGHLIGHTS
- Kenya exported more than 870,000 captive-bred live animals between 2013 and 2023
- Reptile exports increased tenfold over the decade, driven by global pet and luxury wildlife markets
- Conservationists warn the booming trade poses risks to animal welfare, public health and wildlife protection
Kenya’s trade in captive-bred wildlife has expanded sharply over the past decade, with reptile exports increasing more than tenfold, raising concerns among conservationists and animal welfare groups.
A report by World Animal Protection says more than 870,000 live animals reported as captive-bred were exported from Kenya between 2013 and 2023.
Reptiles accounted for the majority of the trade, making up 81% of export records and nearly half of all live animals traded during the period.
According to the report, annual reptile exports rose from 8,551 animals in 2013 to 86,330 in 2023, reflecting a sharp expansion in the commercial wildlife trade.
Global Demand Driving Trade
The findings suggest Kenya is becoming an increasingly important supplier to international pet and luxury wildlife markets, with exports reaching at least 43 countries across Asia, Europe, North America, Africa and South America.
The report says 93% of the exports were commercial in nature, with most live animals destined for overseas buyers.
However, researchers warned that the growth in wildlife trade has exposed weaknesses in monitoring systems and raised concerns about threatened species, animal welfare and public health risks linked to the movement of live animals.
“Kenya is witnessing a rapid rise in wildlife exports, particularly reptiles, and the ten-year trend is deeply concerning,” said Dr Patrick Muinde, Research Manager at World Animal Protection.
“Most of these exports involve live animals, making this far more than a question of numbers. It is cruel and raises questions about its sustainability. The trade in live wild animals also carries clear risks to public health and wellbeing,” he added.
Calls for Stronger Regulation
Conservationists say Kenya’s growing role as both a source and transit hub in international wildlife trade networks makes stronger regulation and transparency increasingly important.
Animal welfare groups are now calling for tighter oversight and improved traceability of captive breeding and wildlife ranching operations in the
