Arafat Mwanyoka is a snake charmer based in Diani, Ukunda, Kwale County. Despite the fear most people have for snakes, Mwanyoka and his family make money from rearing them. Mwanyoka’s farm, Jungle Snake Park, houses different types of snakes, including black mambas, green mambas, and pythons. He feeds them with chicken and rabbits that he also rears in his farm, which ensures that the reptiles are healthy since they don’t eat animals with parasites.
Mwanyoka explained that he mostly gets animals for feeding the snakes from local forests in Kwale. He also noted that he understands different types of snakes inside out. When he looks at a snake, he can tell if it’s a male or female, if it’s on heat, if it’s pregnant, and if it’s sick or crazy. Although his neighbors initially questioned his decision to keep snakes, they have since gained trust in him.
However, Mwanyoka was once bitten by one of his snakes and was rushed to the hospital fully paralyzed. He had taken one of the snakes out to show his visitors on Christmas day. The snake didn’t want any of it and bit him. Despite the incident, Mwanyoka’s business has provided employment for many people in his home area. He has also allowed parents in his locality to take their children to his farm to learn how to handle snakes.
In addition to snakes, Mwanyoka keeps crocodiles, chameleons, and geckos. He explains that he has studied and understands all types of snakes he keeps. Feeding them with animals he rears, ensures that the reptiles are healthy. Mwanyoka’s ability to understand snakes has earned him respect from his neighbors, who initially saw him as a crazy person risking his life. His farm has not only provided employment but also educational opportunities for children interested in snakes.
In conclusion, Arafat Mwanyoka is a snake charmer who has turned his passion for snakes into a business. Although most people fear snakes, Mwanyoka has managed to create a unique niche in rearing and understanding different types of snakes. Despite the risk of being bitten by snakes, his expertise has earned him respect and trust from his neighbors, who initially questioned his decision to keep snakes. His farm, Jungle Snake Park, provides employment and educational opportunities for his home area.
