As count down to Christmas Eve draws, all eyes are on Baringo County, where the hyped Kimalel Goat Auction is taking place today graced by President William Ruto.This is usually an annual event and over 4,200 goats will be auctioned.
Kimalel Goat Auction came in its inception in 1992 which from that time has drawn communal acceptance.
The sale has embraced digital technology, gradually phasing out the long-standing tradition that required buyers to be physically present at the auction grounds. Through the digital platform, buyers can now participate remotely, widening the market and reducing costs for farmers.
Before any goat is listed for sale, livestock and veterinary officers conduct a rigorous selection process.
Each animal is inspected to confirm the correct live weight and certify that it is free from disease—an assurance aimed at protecting buyers while guaranteeing farmers fair value for their goats.
Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi has said that the county is committed to modernizing livestock marketing through digital platforms and the operationalization of the Maoi Abattoir, which will enable farmers to sell goats consistently throughout the year, not just during the festive season.
Beyond trade, the Kimalel Goat Auction remains a powerful cultural and social gathering. Residents and visitors are treated to vibrant boat races on Lake Baringo, featuring traditional rafts.Â
The Kimalel Goat Auction was first launched by the late President Daniel arap Moi in 1992 with a vision to improve the livelihoods of Baringo’s pastoral communities by providing a reliable market and better prices for their livestock.Â
