Bullfighting has been an antiquated spectacle from a time when humans had far less understanding of animals and their needs. Bullfighting is not “culture” – it’s cruelty. Yet Kakamega County in Kenya is set to launch a bullfighting “league” in 2026.
This is a terrible idea. And it’s not just bad news for animals – it’s bad for the people of Kakamega and the nation’s reputation.
Having spent a great deal of time in Kenya with my son, I can tell you that it’s one of those nations that has learnt how to profit from protecting animals and nature, rather than exploiting them.
Yes, Kenya has its challenges, but promoting what it does best – from its extraordinary safaris and breathtaking coastlines to even the summer camps my son attended – can only benefit the country’s global image and economy.
This bullfighting league, however, would completely unravel Kenya’s reputation as a leading animal-friendly destination.
Bullfighting is not part of Kenya’s heritage
Kenyan heritage is rich with music, art, and – yes – competition. But contests are only legitimate when they’re between humans who choose to compete or entertain.
Animals used in bullfights have no such choice. These intelligent, sensitive beings are forced to participate in a nightmarish display of terror and violence – all just for the fleeting amusement of the audience.
Bulls are complex animals with unique personalities who form sophisticated social bonds. They are peaceful and social by nature.
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They don’t want to participate in “bullfighting” – a misleading term, since the bulls aren’t truly “fighting” but are provoked into aggression.
In these events, confused and frightened animals are goaded into attacking each other, often suffering from injuries and emotional trauma.
Meanwhile, human handlers and spectators are also at risk, as the distressed bulls may charge at them.
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Event Tarnishing Image of Kakamega
I admire the way Kenya’s people generally treat animals with kindness and respect. African culture is diverse and vibrant, and there are countless modern ways to showcase its richness and expand its economy without exploiting animals.
When it comes to promoting sports tourism, the focus should remain on real sports: football and track and field, to name just two.
But associating Kakamega with such a cruel, shameful spectacle as bullfighting would tarnish its reputation and betray the values of compassion and dignity that Kenya is known for.
Kakamega must cancel this “bullfighting league” before it begins. Every animal is someone.
This article was written by Jason Baker, PETA Asia’s senior Vice President. The views expressed in this opinion piece are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect our editorial stance.
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