Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary (PS) Mary Muthoni has directed all public health officers across Kenya to immediately close down butcheries selling uninspected meat, warning that such practices pose serious health risks to consumers.
Speaking in Nairobi, Muthoni emphasized that the government has intensified efforts to safeguard public health, especially as the festive season approaches a period marked by increased demand for meat. “I want to ask all public health officers to go and close all the butcheries that are selling uninspected meat. We have put all other important procedures in place, including our ports, where no one is allowed to come in uninspected,” she stated.
The PS revealed that the Ministry of Health is working closely with county governments, where most inspection officers are stationed, to strengthen surveillance and enforce compliance. She also cautioned that any inspection officers found colluding with traders to bypass official inspections will face disciplinary and legal action.
Under government regulations, all animals intended for slaughter must undergo ante-mortem and post-mortem inspections conducted by certified veterinary or public health officers. Approved meat is then stamped to verify that it is fit for human consumption. Consumers are urged to look out for this official stamp when purchasing meat.
Additionally, butcheries are required to possess valid operating licences, maintain records of their suppliers, and ensure that meat is stored in clean, refrigerated facilities that meet hygiene standards set under the Public Health Act.
The transportation of meat will also be closely monitored, with consignments required to have sealed containers and movement permits from licensed slaughterhouses.
Muthoni warned that consuming uninspected meat can expose Kenyans to zoonotic diseases such as anthrax, brucellosis, and Rift Valley Fever, as well as chemical contamination from untreated animal drugs and pesticides.
