Dressed up in ‘mboga’, for the love of animals

Campaign to draw attention to the suffering of creatures killed and eaten

A lone voice is getting louder by the day, shouting: “Go vegetarian and save planet earth.” And soon, Kenyan lovers of nyama choma, tumbukiza or fry — all variations of beef an mbuzi meat— will start listening.

Africa’s first Lettuce Lady is none other than Michelle Odhiambo, 26.

Clad in a spectacular full-length gown made of lettuce, Michelle made her case for adopting the vegetarian diet in her campaign.

Compassionate

In her right hand, she held a sign reading: Let Vegetarianism Grow On You. She said animal products have been found to be number one cause of climate change.

“I believe Kenya is a compassionate society. Animals have rights just like humans do, and deserve a break,” said Lettuce Lady.

The challenge is also to restaurants. Lettuce Lady is challenging food outlets to introduce vegetarian dishes on the menu.

Michelle, a volunteer of the People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta), wanted to draw attention to the suffering billions of animals, raised and killed for food.

“We are asking people to turn a new leaf and go vegetarian,” Michelle told the crowd that gathered on Kenyatta Avenue in Nairobi on Tuesday.

“With so many delicious alternatives to meat, it is easier than ever to enjoy great food without causing animal suffering.”

Michelle who became a vegetarian in 2002, says the kind of treatment animals are subjected to made her change her beef-eating habits. It was not easy, she explains, but she persevered.

Animal products

“As we grow up, we are made to believe that animal products are the main sources of proteins our bodies require, but the truth is, we can get the same in vegetables, fruits and nuts.

“Lack of information continues to hurt animals and our planet. Today I have decided to encourage Kenyans to become vegetarians and stop eating meat because of the damage it does,” she said.

According to the organisers of Lettuce Lady, consumption of meat, eggs and dairy products is a major contributor to resource depletion, pollution and widespread hunger, especially in Africa and parts of Asia.