Kajiado: in collaboration with The State Department of Livestock, Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Kenya, and SNV Netherlands, has launched a new livestock feed strategy. This strategy, spanning from 2023 to 2033, is designed to bolster the livestock sector’s contribution to food security, Agribusiness, employment, and rangeland rehabilitation in alignment with Kenya’s Vision 2030.
According to Kenya News Agency, an Agribusiness and Agri-food value chain specialist at FAO Kenya, this strategy is particularly significant for Kajiado County, which has been severely impacted by climate change and recent droughts. Kosgey explained that the strategy provides comprehensive guidance for county officials, implementing partners, and various value chain actors, enabling them to understand the needs, gaps, and strategies required for effective feed production and utilization.
Kosgey also expressed the hope that the strategy will remain adaptable, allowing adjustments based on changes in livestock populations. Julius Rono, Project Manager for SNV Kenya, anticipates that this strategy will enhance resilience, particularly for agro-pastoralists, by offering a roadmap for developing and improving fodder production. He emphasized that Kajiado currently faces a 34% deficiency in livestock feeds, and the strategy aims to reverse this by increasing feed productivity.
Rono also noted the strategy’s role as an investment vehicle, potentially attracting private sector participation in the beef and forage production value chains. This, he believes, will significantly improve livestock productivity and, consequently, the livelihoods of agro-pastoralists. Additionally, he highlighted the critical role of the forage value chain in creating employment opportunities, particularly for women and youth.
The strategy is part of a broader initiative by SNV to strengthen county government capacities and foster partnerships in beef value chains as a means of transforming food systems. It aims to mitigate the impacts of climate change and enhance food security and livelihood improvement in Kajiado and other Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (Asal) counties.
Dr. Jacktone Achola, Kajiado’s County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Livestock, Irrigation, and Fisheries, reiterated that the strategy will address challenges in feed production, conservation, and utilization. He expressed optimism that it would lead to increased livestock productivity, a shift from traditional to commercial livestock keeping, and a subsequent rise in household income and GDP for Kajiado County. Dr. Achola added that the strategy would encourage farmers to diversify their fodder crops beyond traditional pastures.