Kenya Advances Livestock Sector with Modern Breeding and Infrastructure

ISIOLO – In a significant stride towards enhancing livestock production, the Kenyan government is set to distribute artificial insemination semen across 31 counties. This initiative, aimed at boosting livestock quality and production, was announced by the Director of Livestock Production, Dr. Bishar Elmi, in Isiolo.

According to Kenya News Agency, with 40,000 doses each for Borana cattle and indigenous breeds, which are expected to improve milk, meat, and skin production significantly. Additionally, the government has devised a strategy to mitigate the impact of drought, a perennial challenge in the region, by establishing 450 feedlots in every county. This development is part of the broader effort to enhance resilience against adverse climatic conditions.

During an event in Isiolo town, where Dr. Elmi engaged with 300 herders celebrating the conclusion of the ‘Ufugaji Bora Mashinani’ program—a collaborative initiative between the Northern Rangeland Trust (NRT) and the government—he highlighted the emphasis on modern livestock management practices. These practices are designed to optimize water usage for grass cultivation, crucial for the feedlots.

The advancement of the Isiolo modern slaughterhouse was also a key topic in Dr. Elmi’s address. The facility, nearing completion, is expected to significantly bolster the local and national economy by facilitating meat exports and creating job opportunities. Upon opening, the slaughterhouse will process over 160 camels, 300 cows, and 2,500 goats daily, generating employment for both skilled and unskilled workers.

Furthermore, Dr. Elmi addressed the pressing need to augment meat production to meet both local and international demands. With Kenya’s current production standing at 45,000 tonnes against a requirement of 66,000 tonnes, the government’s initiatives are timely and pivotal.

Echoing the sentiment for modernization, Isiolo Deputy County Commissioner Mr. Patrick Musango encouraged farmers to adopt advanced technologies and practices like zero grazing to enhance productivity and security. He underscored the necessity of shielding livestock from rustlers, a move that not only protects assets but also lives.

The Deputy County Commissioner also mandated local chiefs to participate in training workshops, ensuring the effective dissemination of government policies and information to the grassroots level, thereby fostering a well-informed and progressive agricultural community.