Camel hides: Production, marketing and utilization in pastoral regions of northern Kenya

Camel hides are important sources of foreign exchange earnings for Kenya and other African countries. However, it has been observed that the full potential of camel hides has not been realized nor exploited in Kenya. This has been attributed to poor quality of hides which leads to low demand in both domestic and export markets. This led to the need for Kenya Agricultural Research Institute Marsabit Centre to conduct this study, which aimed at assessing the production, marketing and utilization of camel hides from northern Kenya. The study took place in major areas that produce and market camel hides in Kenya, namely Moyale, Marsabit, Isiolo, Garisa, Wajir (pastoral regions in arid and semi-arid areas ASALS) and Nairobi city. Research methods included semi-structured questionnaires, key informants, direct observation and documentary information. The results showed that camel hides were mainly sold in the big towns of northern Kenya and Nairobi. The study also indicated that camel hides were of poor quality due to poor flaying and curing methods. The study also revealed that most camel hides are used for domestic purposes. Pastoral communities need to be encouraged to sell their camel hides. There is a need to train camel keepers on appropriate methods of flaying and curing hides. There is a need for policy makers to consider improving the roads in the ASALS and to lower taxes charged on hides.

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