Nyeri: The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development has announced a comprehensive plan to elevate the country’s livestock and meat industry, aiming to generate Sh1 trillion annually. Principal Secretary in the State Department for Livestock Development, Jonathan Mueke, revealed the initiative at the closing session of the Kenya Meat Conference, emphasizing the potential transformation of the sector into a major economic driver.
According to Kenya News Agency, the conference marked a significant milestone as it was the first event to gather all participants in the meat value chain to formulate strategies for enhancing the sector’s profitability. Mueke highlighted the industry’s current contribution of Sh. 390 billion to the nation’s GDP and expressed optimism about tripling this figure by 2029. However, he pointed out challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, livestock diseases, and limited access to premium export markets.
Key resolutions from the conference include the nationwide rollout of the Animal Identification and Traceability System (ANITRAC) across 47 counties. This system is expected to meet international sanitary standards and facilitate access to global markets. The government also plans to expand the National Mass Vaccination program to cover 80% of the livestock population, addressing diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease that hinder export potential.
The initiative further includes revamping farmer advisory services through digital technology and artificial intelligence to predict disease outbreaks. Veterinary laboratories and meat certification systems will also be upgraded. To enhance livestock breeds, a national improvement program will target Arid and Semi-arid regions, increasing the use of artificial insemination from 10% to 80%.
The government intends to establish disease-free zones to prevent blanket export bans during isolated disease outbreaks and invest in dams and irrigation infrastructure for large-scale commercial fodder production. This will support feedlot farming, improve livestock nutrition, and increase meat production.
To fund these initiatives, resources will be sought through the National Infrastructure Fund to construct dams for irrigation-fed fodder production in ASALs. The government also plans to partner with stakeholders, including County Governments, to invest in export-grade slaughterhouses, meat processing plants, and logistics systems, introducing a national meat grading system.
Efforts to expand Kenya’s international meat market footprint include reducing air freight costs, developing a distinct Kenya Meat Brand, and initially targeting niche markets in the Middle East. The Directorate of Veterinary Services will start registering and licensing all livestock and meat exporters to enhance regulation and protect the country’s global reputation.
Technology and innovation are central to the sector’s transformation, with artificial intelligence expected to attract young people into commercial livestock farming. The proposal will be forwarded to the Cabinet for approval, with implementation as a priority government program if endorsed.
