Havi Urges Kenyans to Cut Back on Meat During Festive Season

Senior Counsel Nelson Havi has prompted public discussion after advising Kenyans to reduce meat consumption during the festive season and instead eat more fruits and vegetables.

In a post shared on social media, the Nairobi-based lawyer attributed his slim physique to his dietary choices, saying he rarely eats meat. He remarked that avoiding what he described as “over-feeding on carcasses” had helped him steer clear of a protruding stomach, which he associated with ageing.

Havi supported his argument with an analogy from wildlife, stating that chimpanzees, which mainly eat fruits and vegetables, are not obese. He accompanied the post with a photograph taken at his rural home in western Kenya, showing him seated outdoors beside a table set with grapes, dragon fruit, pineapple slices, strawberries, and a glass of juice. 

The image circulated widely online. The remarks drew immediate responses from Kenyans who defended meat consumption, particularly during Christmas celebrations. Several users challenged his analogy by referring to carnivorous animals such as lions and cheetahs, noting that they are lean despite eating meat. 

Others pointed to economic factors, observing that the festive season is one of the few times many families can afford meat. Cultural considerations also featured prominently in the debate. In western Kenya, certain meat dishes carry social significance. 

Chicken gizzard, locally known as imondo, is traditionally reserved for honoured guests. Some commentators joked that Havi had likely consumed meat in the past before switching to fruits for health reasons, while others dismissed his comparison by noting that herbivorous animals such as elephants can also be overweight.

Across the country, the slaughtering of goats, chickens, and cattle marks Christmas and New Year celebrations. Roasted meat, particularly mbuzi choma, is a focal point of communal gatherings, while chicken remains a valued dish for special occasions.