Baringo auction realises record sales in 27 minutes

Famers in Baringo County sold 1,960 goats in a record of 27 minutes at Ksh 12,000 each in the once collapsed Kimalel goat auction.

This auction, in its third year, was presided over by Deputy President William Ruto who led others in bidding for the goats raising Sh24 million.

The goat auction was famous during the retired President Daniel Arap Moi’s regime and is a famous annual festival in the community aimed at showcasing culture, provide businesses opportunities and expand livestock markets.

The Kimalel Goat Auction, which started in 1986 before grinding to a halt in 2002 when former president Moi relinquished power, has been renamed Kimalel Culture Fair and Goat Auction as the county seeks to enhance tourist.

Wilson Murkew, an auctioneer, said that the auction came at a good time as they would use the money as school fees come January proposing that the auction be held twice a year.

Area chief Samuel Kisa confirmed that farmers were also able to bring more than 10,000 goats but had to be restricted to 2,000 only.

Reuben Chepsongol was crowned as the new auctioneer.

On his part Baringo County Governor Benjamin Cheboi said that before the cultural fair, there would be road races, music competition and boat races where winners would be rewarded.