In a landmark decision, the African Union (AU) has officially banned the donkey skin trade across the continent. This move signals an end to the legal slaughter of hundreds of thousands of donkeys, decimated by the demand for ejiao, a traditional Chinese medicine.
The ban was ratified during the 37th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on February 17-18. This follows a proposal in November by the AU’s Specialized Technical Committee for Agriculture, Rural Development, Water and Environment, recognizing the devastating impact of the trade.
Driven by unsubstantiated health claims, ejiao, a gelatin made from donkey skin, has wiped out China’s domestic donkey population. This intense demand fueled a massive export industry focused on Africa and South America, with devastating consequences. “Decimated” is how animal welfare group Brooke – Action for Working Horses and Donkeys describes the impact on Africa’s donkey population, vital for communities who rely on them for transportation, water, food, and goods.
Approximately two-thirds of the world’s estimated 53 million donkeys reside in Africa. For the poorest rural communities, these animals are an essential lifeline. The AU’s ban offers a beacon of hope for both donkeys and the people who depend on them, promoting sustainability and ethical practices in the continent.
While the ban marks a significant victory, enforcing it effectively will be crucial. The Brooke organization, a key advocate for the ban, has pledged to continue working with governments and policymakers to ensure its successful implementation. This crucial step forward paves the way for a future where donkeys are protected and communities can thrive alongside them.
