Rising Livestock Demand Boosts Business at Mandera Market Ahead of Eid al-Adha

By Adan Mohamed - Reporter

Kenya, 26 May 2026 - Business activities at the livestock market in Mandera have boomed as residents prepare for the upcoming Eid al-Adha celebrations, with hundreds of people flocking to the market to purchase animals for the religious festival.

The main Mandera livestock market witnessed a sharp increase in the number of goats, sheep, cattle, and camels arriving from different parts of the county and neighbouring regions.

Traders said the market has become increasingly busy in recent days as demand for sacrificial animals continues to rise ahead of the festivities.

Livestock prices have also risen significantly due to increased demand. The biggest sheep at the market on Tuesday morning was selling for up to KSh 27,000, while large goats were going for as much as KSh 20,000. Some cattle were being sold for up to KSh 50,000 depending on size and condition.

Traders expressed optimism over this year’s business, saying the livestock market has improved compared to previous years that were affected by prolonged drought.

According to several livestock traders, the recent rains experienced across the region have helped improve pasture and water availability, leading to healthier animals and increased livestock supply.

“This year the market is much better than during the drought period. Animals are healthy, and buyers are coming in large numbers every day,” said one livestock trader at the market.

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Mohamud Hussein, another trader, noted that the Eid season remains one of the most important business periods for livestock sellers in Mandera.

“Eid al-Adha always brings more customers to the market. Many families are looking for good animals for sacrifice, and business has improved for traders and brokers,” he said.

Those involved as transporters operating within the market also reported increased activity, noting that many traders are bringing animals from rural areas to meet the growing demand in town.

Residents who visited the market said purchasing livestock for Eid remains an important religious and cultural tradition observed by Muslim families during the celebrations.

“We came early to look for affordable animals before prices go even higher. Every family wants to prepare well for Eid,” said one resident at the market.

Local traders are now hoping business activities will continue to improve in the coming days as more buyers are expected to visit the market ahead of Eid al-Adha celebrations.