On the 24th August 2018, the Lilongwe Society for the Protection and Care of Animals (LSPCA) and our lead farmer donkey owners joined the rest of the world in celebrating Global Working Animal Day in Mpingu-Lilongwe.
The Global Working Animal Day is an international event aimed at raising awareness about the vital role played by working animals in developing countries around the world.
LSPCA in collaboration with Animal Aid Abroad, participated in this year’s Global Working Animal Day by conducting demonstrations to raise awareness about the vital role of donkeys and showcased solutions to improve the plight of donkeys in Malawi.
The focus of the event showcased correct ways of harnessing a donkey to a cart (rather than using yokes for oxen) and smaller carts and ploughs to suit the donkey’s build, strength and specific needs.
The guest of honour for the event, Dr. Joseph Nkhoma, Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development Veterinary Officer at LADD, said decisions regarding animal care, use and welfare shall be made by balancing scientific knowledge and professional judgment with consideration of ethical and societal values.
“Animals must be provided with food, water, proper handling, health care and an environment appropriate to their care and use, with thoughtful consideration for their species-type biology and behavior,” said Nkhoma.
In rural Malawi and increasingly on the outskirts of the city, donkeys are used to do the jobs of trucks, tractors and taxis. Transporting goods and using working animals make it possible for impoverished families to earn a living.
Despite their importance to humanity, these animals often lead short, hard lives, with tough working conditions, inadequate nutrition and little or no access to veterinary treatment. Every day, thousands of animals are overworked, abused, and injured through inhumane hard labour. They’re often forced to carry heavy loads for farming, festivals, or construction — weights well beyond their capacity.
LSPCA with support from Donkey Sanctuary UK launched Donkey Sanctuary Project with an aim to transform the quality of life of donkeys and people in Malawi through greater understanding, collaboration and support, and also promoting lasting, mutually life-enhancing relationships.