Donkeys are being stolen and slaughtered to produce wellness products sold in the UK and globally, according to an investigation. Over six million donkeys are killed annually for their hides, which are processed into ejiao, a substance consumed in various forms claiming to have health benefits.
Ejiao, a traditional Chinese medicine, is touted as a remedy for aging, fertility issues, anemia, insomnia, dizziness, and cancer, in addition to being used in cosmetics. The escalating global demand has fueled an illegal trade in donkey hides in Africa, prompting concerns from charity Brooke about the potential extinction of the continent’s donkey population.
Dr. Raphael Kinoti, director of Brooke: Action for Working Horses and Donkeys in East Africa, highlighted the detrimental impact of purchasing such products, linking consumers to criminal activities that harm communities in Africa. These products, including ejiao snacks and powders, are available online through third-party sellers in the UK.
Despite warnings from the UK Food Standards Agency against importing ejiao products, they continue to be sold online. The agency advises against purchasing unregulated products like ejiao due to safety concerns. The charity Brooke has witnessed the devastating effects of donkey theft on families in Africa, where donkeys are brutally killed for their skins, which are then exported to China.
The story of Beth Wambui, a dairy farmer from Kenya who lost her donkey to theft, illustrates the severe consequences for individuals and communities. The African Union’s ban on killing donkeys for their skin in 2024 has not entirely curbed the illegal trade, leading to continued losses.
Dr. Kinoti emphasized the importance of collective action to combat the cruelty inflicted on donkeys for their hides. He urged consumers to refrain from buying products derived from stolen donkeys. Despite requests for comment, Amazon did not respond to inquiries.
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