Moi University, a leading public institution in Kesses, Uasin Gishu County, has announced a public auction of cows, donkeys, dogs, pigs, and a vehicle on June 24, 2025, to clear idle assets and address financial challenges.
The auction, set to take place at the university’s Main Campus Transport Department yard and farmyard starting at 9:30 AM, aims to raise funds amid ongoing economic difficulties, including debts exceeding Sh8 billion and recent staff layoffs.
The auction includes 19 cows, 10 donkeys, 4 German Shepherd dogs, 10 large white pigs, and a Toyota Hilux vehicle, all listed with reserve prices. Well-bred bulls and bull calves range from Sh7,000 to Sh70,000, while donkeys are priced between Sh6,000 and Sh15,000.
German Shepherd dogs are set at Sh40,000 each, and pigs, all under a year old, will go for Sh3,500 to Sh7,000. The Toyota Hilux has a reserve price of Sh350,000, and 30 used tyres are bundled into a lot for Sh12,000.
All items will be sold on an “as-is, where-is” basis, with viewing available on June 20 and 23 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Kiplagat Kotut emphasised the need to dispose of surplus assets to stabilise the university’s finances. “This auction is a strategic move to clear idle resources and generate revenue,” Kotut stated in a notice.
Bidders must register in advance, depositing Sh20,000 for general items or up to Sh2 million for the vehicle, with payments due in cash immediately after the auction.
The move has sparked mixed reactions. Some, like X user @Egline_Samoei, criticised the auction as a sign of the university’s decline due to “tribalism and corruption”, while others see it as a practical step.
Moi University’s financial woes, including unremitted union dues of Sh64.9 million and a Sh3 billion defaulted loan, have drawn scrutiny, with allegations of mismanagement fuelling public debate.
The auction follows previous asset disposals, including a 2022 sale of cows and bulls, and reflects broader challenges facing Kenyan public universities.
As Moi University seeks to navigate its crisis, the June 24 event highlights the pressing need for sustainable financial strategies. Interested bidders are urged to visit the Kesses campus for viewing and registration details.
