The grisly slaughter of donkeys for their hides has been banned by an order from the African Union.
At the conclusion of the African leaders’ summit in Ethiopia on Sunday, the measure was approved, and it could significantly contribute to the protection of the 33 million donkeys on the continent.
On the continent, a lot of donkeys are being killed for a component of ejiao, a Chinese medicine that some people think has anti-aging and health benefits.
The Donkey Sanctuary, a charity, said, “This historic decision taken by the African Union recognizes, at the highest level of decision making the vital importance of donkeys across Africa.”
The animals were facing “a very real existential threat,” The Donkey Sanctuary said, as 5.9 million donkeys are killed annually for the remedy.
In Africa, people in the poorest communities use donkeys for transportation and to carry goods, including water. A recent African study revealed that possessing a donkey can make the difference between destitution and a modest livelihood.
Marianne Steele, chief executive of The Donkey Sanctuary, said, “Donkeys are sensitive and intelligent creatures who deserve protection for their own sakes and for the countless communities who rely on them.”
