Ksh 250K Per Bull: How Professional Bullfighting is Making Money for Kenyan Farmers
Bullfighting is a common sport among the Luhya community of Western Kenya - particularly in the counties of Kakamega, Busia, Bungoma and Vihiga.
Bullfighting was originally practised to mark key events in the community, such as funerals,but has however evolved over the years and has become a competitive professional sport.
Through the competition people earn income with the winning bulls being sold for as high as Ksh250,000 each.
A champion Bull named NASA is the most expensive bull ever sold as a result of the sport.
Currently the Kenyan bull owners are under an association that has led to the establishment of a stadium in Ikolomani constituency purposefully for bullfighting. The stadium is called Malinya stadium.
Bullfighting matches are usually held on Saturday and public holidays, whereby a bull may have at least two or more fights in a month.
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On the eve of the fighting day, the bulls are said to be intoxicated so that they become aggressive during the bullfight.
One time Deputy President William Ruto rewarded the bull owners with 20 calve pedigree heifers.
One of the most prominent figures in the sport is former Kakmega Senator Boni Khalwale who is also the patron of the Kakamega Bull Fighting Association.
One time the renowned politician stated that at one time he received a Ksh150,000 offer from a butcher who wanted his bull, Malinya Pogba. The animal, unfortunately passed on before it could be sold.
He also revealed that the bull handler receives ksh5,000 every month for training as well as another Ksh25,000 every month to feed and treat the bull.
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