The government, through the Kenya Veterinary Board (KVB), has urged Kenyans to exercise caution when consuming meat this festive season to safeguard their health.
Speaking during a press briefing on Monday, December 23, the KVB advised Kenyans to purchase meat exclusively from licensed outlets bearing government-approved rubber stamps.
This precaution aims to ensure the meat has been inspected and deemed safe for human consumption.
Kenyans were specifically cautioned against purchasing meat from dead animals, which unscrupulous sellers were allegedly offering at discounted prices. A veterinary doctor emphasized the importance of prioritizing personal health by consuming only inspected meat.
“What we have been seeing is people slaughtering animals for meat at home. I urge every Kenyan to remember that your health begins with you,” stated the doctor.
“You need to access meat that is licensed and stamped by a government licensing officer,” the doctor added.
The board also encouraged Kenyans to request butchers to display certificates authorizing the transportation of meat from slaughterhouses to butcheries.
The KVB’s warning coincided with a separate advisory issued by the Ministry of Health, which discouraged consuming uninspected meat or meat sourced from dead animals.
Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, in a statement released Monday morning, stressed the importance of food safety during the holiday season. She urged Kenyans to maintain high standards of hygiene, particularly when preparing meals.
“To maintain food safety, ensure cleanliness when handling food, wash hands frequently with soap and running water, and cook all food thoroughly before serving hot,” PS Muthoni advised.
She also encouraged Kenyans to use clean, treated, or boiled water for cooking and drinking to avoid waterborne diseases.
The Ministry further called for measures to prevent the spread of diseases during the festive season. PS Muthoni urged the public to stay hydrated, protect themselves from extreme weather conditions, and practice respiratory hygiene by covering their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing.
Additionally, the Ministry recommended sleeping under treated mosquito nets to prevent malaria, practicing safe sex or abstaining, and seeking prompt medical attention when feeling unwell.
The dual advisories highlight the government’s commitment to ensuring public health and safety during the festive season, urging Kenyans to remain vigilant and prioritize hygiene and food safety
