Lamu is a small island off the mainland of Kenya where time has stood still. Until recently donkeys were the only form of transport. There are an estimated 2,200 donkeys on the island which are used in agriculture but also in carrying household provisions and building materials.

Dr Svendsen, founder of The Donkey Sanctuary, first visited Lamu in 1985 whilst on holiday. Worried by the poor condition of the working donkeys, regular treatment clinics including a six monthly worming programme have been established

Our Sanctuary in Lamu first opened its doors in July 1987. Since that day the health and condition of the donkeys has improved considerably and the primitive practices of bleeding a donkey or burning them with hot irons to treat illness is thankfully being reduced.

The Sanctuary provides treatment to all donkeys free of charge. The twice-yearly de-worming programme on Lamu and the surrounding islands has contributed immensely to the better health of the donkeys. A marked improvement in donkey care has been seen since the annual competition for the best condition donkey was started.