Molo Sheep

The Molo sheep is easily distinguished from others: It is white and completely covered with a thick coat, including on its forehead and cheeks, forming a sort of beard that surrounds its face. It has a small and stocky body, short legs and a very long tail. Its early history is linked to colonialism and marginalization of the local tribes, but over time, it has become an important resource for local communities.
It has been bred in the homonymous region of Kenya since the beginning of the 20th century. This local, well-adapted breed originally comes from three British breeds: Corriadale, Hampshire Down and Romney Marsh. The arrival of these three sheep in Kenya dates back to the late 19th century, when British settlers arrived in the so-called White Highlands to build a railway between Kenya and Uganda. The substantial cost of this project resulted in strong criticism from Britain, subsided only with the promise of fertile land for English settlers. From 1901, certain areas of the highlands become reserved solely for European farmers; local communities such as the Maasai were confined to reservations. The cool and rainy climate in the highlands (2,500 meters above sea level) provided ideal conditions for raising English sheep breeds.
Over time, the mix of breeds resulted in the type that exists today. Molo sheep are very hardy and resistant to disease. They give birth several times a year, unrelated to seasons, and are slaughtered from the age of six months, when they reach an average weight of 14 kilograms. The tender and succulent meat is highly valued: Baked, roasted or steamed, it is still an integral part of ceremonies such as weddings. The wool is also high quality, used by local women to make bags, mats and dolls.