Kenya’s live reptile exports jump 10-fold in decade

NAIROBI, Kenya, May 14 – Kenya’s exports of live reptiles have increased more than tenfold over the past decade, with over 870,000 live CITES-listed animals entering the global wildlife trade between 2013 and 2023, according to a new scientific study.

The peer-reviewed study shows that annual exports of live reptiles rose sharply from 8,551 individuals in 2013 to 86,330 in 2023, highlighting the rapid expansion of Kenya’s captive-bred wildlife trade.

According to the findings, reptiles accounted for 81 percent of export records and nearly half of all live animals traded during the period.

The study found that Kenya exported wildlife to at least 43 countries across Asia, Europe, North America, Africa and South America, positioning the country as a growing supplier to global pet and luxury wildlife markets.

Researchers, however, warned that the trade raises concerns over conservation, animal welfare, public health risks and weak regulatory oversight.

More than 77 percent of traded species were found to have declining or unknown wild population trends, raising questions over the sustainability of the trade even where animals are reported as captive-bred or ranched.

The report also noted continued illegal trade in pancake tortoises despite the species facing severe conservation pressure.

Patrick Muinde said the growth in live wildlife exports is deeply concerning.

“Most of these exports involve live animals, making this far more than a question of numbers. It is cruel and raises questions about its sustainability,” he said.

“The trade in live wild animals also carries clear risks to public health and wellbeing. At its core, it reflects a system that treats sentient beings as mere commodities rather than living beings.”

The study documented 886 CITES export records involving 28 wildlife species between 2013 and 2023, with 93 percent of exports categorized as commercial trade destined mainly for North America, Europe and Asia.

Researchers also identified discrepancies between exporter and importer-reported CITES data, suggesting weaknesses in monitoring and reporting systems.

At least seven of the traded species are internationally threatened.

World Animal Protection called for stronger regulation and traceability of captive breeding and ranching operations, routine animal welfare audits, improved disease surveillance and efforts to reduce demand for wild animals in international pet and luxury markets.

The findings come as Kenya reviews its wildlife laws under the proposed Wildlife Conservation and Management Bill, 2025.