Donkeys are rare animals to spot anywhere in Thika Town or its outskirts but the phenomenon seems to be changing.
In Kiganjo Estate for instance, the number of donkeys is significantly growing. Bodaboda riders who have started to receive some competition from the animals attribute the upsurge to massive construction of rental houses in the area.
"There is a big demand for transporters of building materials like cement and water to the building sites. Initially we bodaboda people used to be given this work," said Patrick Muiruri, the Kiganjo Bodaboda Association Chairman on Thursday.
He added, "But with with the entry of donkeys in the area few months ago, many builders are now preferring them as they can carry huge loads at once as opposed to bodabodas."
Muiruri also says that donkeys have taken over the business of moving people relocating within the estate or to the neighbouring ones.
Michael Kamau, one of the donkey owners, estimates that the number of donkeys in the area could be up to fifteen.
"Many people have expressed desire of acquiring the animals and the current number may double or triple in the next few months. Demand for them is high," said Kamau.