Bomet Health Officials Bust Flamingo Meat in Crackdown on Eateries

A major operation has kick off in Bomet after county officials uncovered eateries secretly selling flamingo meat to unsuspecting customers.

County Health Chief Officer Felix Langat said the crackdown, aims to protect both public health and endangered wildlife.

He described the discovery as alarming, warning that consuming unregulated game meat can expose residents to dangerous diseases.

“We have received disturbing reports that some food outlets are offering flamingo meat as a delicacy,” Langat told journalists. “Our teams have been deployed across Bomet town and nearby trading centres to inspect eateries. This is a serious health concern.”

Health inspectors have already raided several eateries, confiscating meat suspected to be from flamingos. Langat said those found guilty of selling the meat will face prosecution under public health regulations.

The revelation has sparked curiosity and concern among locals, with some shocked that flamingos — a popular attraction at nearby Rift Valley lakes — were being hunted and sold as food. Others commended the county government for stepping in quickly.

“We never imagined such meat could be sold here,” said one resident, adding that the news had made her more cautious about where she eats.

Langat urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious meat sales, insisting that all meat consumed must come from licensed, inspected sources.

“Protecting public health is our priority,” he said. “This crackdown will continue until every illegal supplier is brought to book.”

A eatery owner who was arrested with nearly 20 kilograms of suspected Flamingo meat is being held by police in Bomet.

Other suspects linked with the illegal business are being pursued.