How can we create meaningful and sustainable change in the cage-free movement in Kenya and Africa as a whole? This is a pertinent question that we frequently ask ourselves at Utunzi Animal Welfare Organization. As a new organization (just two years old) in the movement, we have encountered this problem numerous times when engaging with farmers and different stakeholders in the field, and in the course of our extensive work, we have come up with four key recommendations on how to sustainably push and change the cage-free movement in Kenya, and Africa as a whole. Here they are:
1. Empowering local communities.
Positive change is wholesome in nature. We cannot claim to create good welfare for layer hens without empowering the farmers who breed and keep poultry and the communities that are sustained on poultry farming. Our approach as Utunzi in empowering farmers is to provide them with education and training on sustainable agriculture practices and emphasize the benefits of cage-free systems. By equipping farmers with the knowledge and tools to implement these practices, we empower them to improve their income, diversify their livelihoods, and contribute to poverty reduction.
2. Identifying synergies.
Just as Effective Altruism emphasizes the power of mutual effort and collaboration, so do we at Utunzi. We work closely with local communities, animal welfare organizations, governmental bodies, and other stakeholders to drive change. Through partnerships, we leverage resources, share expertise, and create a collective impact that extends beyond our organization's reach.
3. Education and awareness.
Nelson Mandela once said that education is the most powerful tool to change the world. This is a concept that we heavily believe in as Utunzi. We have a multiple-thronged approach of creating awareness, and this is through social media, webinars, our interactive farmer engagement programs, and so much more! We certainly believe that knowledge is power.
4. Policy and Institutional Change:
Being part of the Open Wing Alliance has opened our eyes to the importance of institutional campaigns, and their capacity in creating change for millions of animals at once. We engage with policymakers, government agencies, and industry stakeholders to advocate for animal welfare policies and standards. By integrating cage-free commitments into agricultural policies and regulations, we aim to institutionalize humane and sustainable practices, ensuring lasting impact..
Whilst we agree that one size does not fit all approaches, we believe that using one, two, or all the four approaches above is one sure-bet way of achieving sustainable change in the cage-free movement in Kenya, and Africa as a whole. We would also like to reiterate the work we do in steering this change in Kenya. Follow us on our social media and check our website to learn more about what we do!
By David Kavunja & Charles Imo
Utunzi Animal Welfare Organization.