NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has issued a public health warning after seizing an estimated two tonnes of suspected zebra meat in Gikambura, Kiambu County, in a multi-agency operation targeting illegal bushmeat trade.
In a statement dated February 25, 2026, KWS said the operation was conducted in Gikambura, Kiambu County, with follow-up enforcement at Dagoretti Market in Nairobi County.
Officers recovered six sacks of suspected de-boned zebra meat, one fully skinned zebra carcass, and 15 frozen meat packages weighing about 250 grammes each. KWS estimates the total consignment at approximately 2,000 kilogrammes, plus 7.5 kilogrammes of packaged frozen meat.
Four suspects were arrested, and investigations are ongoing.
KWS warned that bushmeat consumption poses serious public health risks. “Besides constituting a serious wildlife crime, the handling, sale, and consumption of bushmeat pose significant public-health, safety, and legal risks,” the agency said.
The agency cited the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, Cap 376, which prohibits the killing, possession, transportation, or trade in wildlife without lawful authority. Section 131(2) of the Public Health Act, Cap 242, also bans the sale or distribution of uninspected meat intended for human consumption.
Public health experts have consistently warned that bushmeat handled outside regulated veterinary systems exposes consumers to zoonotic diseases. Such meat lacks inspection, hygiene controls, and proper cold-chain management. Improper slaughter and storage heighten the risk of bacterial contamination and viral transmission.
KWS said the seizure highlights a growing illegal bushmeat trade targeting unsuspecting consumers. The agency urged members of the public to report wildlife poaching and illegal meat activities through official reporting channels.
The crackdown comes amid increased enforcement against wildlife crime, which remains a threat to biodiversity and conservation gains. Kenya has positioned itself as a global leader in wildlife protection. However, illegal hunting and bushmeat trafficking continue to undermine conservation efforts and expose communities to health dangers.
Beyond criminal liability, authorities say the health implications could strain already stretched public health systems if outbreaks linked to unsafe meat occur.
KWS emphasised that licensed meat must undergo inspection and comply with hygiene standards before reaching consumers. “Bushmeat handled outside regulated veterinary systems exposes handlers and consumers to zoonotic diseases through unsafe slaughter, handling, storage, and preparation,” the statement said.
The agency called for vigilance from the public, traders, and market operators, warning that enforcement will continue in both rural source areas and urban markets.
As investigations proceed, authorities say the Gikambura seizure serves as a stark reminder that wildlife crime is not only an environmental issue but also a public health and governance concern with far-reaching consequences.
