Nairobi: The government has announced intensified efforts to fully exploit the livestock sub-sector, benefiting over 10 million livestock keepers nationwide. This acknowledgment of the sector’s critical role in the economy comes with the aim of initiating greater reforms by 2025, which will propel the sub-sector to new heights. Currently, it contributes over 12 percent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and approximately 50 percent to the agricultural GDP. Furthermore, it employs half of the agricultural labor force and supports over 60 percent of Kenyan households.
According to Kenya News Agency, the government is addressing the rising threat of livestock diseases. Dr. Isaac Mwaura, the Government Spokesperson, highlighted the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in Kakamega, West Pokot, and Trans Nzoia Counties. The outbreak in Trans Nzoia was first reported in November 2024 across several sub-counties, with samples confirming the type O serotype at the National FMD Referral Laboratory. Subsequently, West Pokot and Kakamega Counties reported cases, with some awaiting laboratory confirmation.
In response, the government has invoked the Animal Diseases Control Act (Cap 364) to manage the outbreaks effectively. Measures include quarantines on animal movement in affected areas and the indefinite closure of livestock markets in these regions. Additionally, ring vaccination is underway ahead of a national vaccination exercise.
During a media briefing in Nairobi, Dr. Mwaura reported ongoing vaccination efforts in Kakamega County, where thousands of cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs have been vaccinated. Trans Nzoia County’s veterinary department has received 4,000 doses of FMD vaccines, with plans to commence vaccinations soon. Farmers are encouraged to continue private vaccinations.
The Spokesperson emphasized the significant impact of FMD and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) on livestock, noting their high infection and mortality rates. He described the recurring disease outbreaks as major setbacks, threatening both livestock health and farmers’ livelihoods. To mitigate these challenges, the government is finalizing a national livestock vaccination program.
Dr. Mwaura highlighted the importance of this program in overcoming barriers to lucrative export markets in Europe and the Middle East. He noted that strict health regulations and safety concerns have hindered Kenyan livestock products’ potential in these markets, necessitating improved standards.
FMD and PPR are classified as ‘trade-sensitive’ transboundary animal diseases by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). The effectiveness of Kenya’s prevention and control measures determines market access for its livestock and products. Vaccination is deemed the most effective strategy, with plans to immunize 22 million cattle against FMD and 50 million sheep and goats against PPR.
The government emphasizes that the National Livestock Vaccination Programme is voluntary, with vaccines locally produced by the Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute (KEVEVAPI) to ensure high safety and efficacy standards.
To further enhance the livestock sector, Dr. Mwaura announced the introduction of a livestock insurance policy to protect farmers from losses due to droughts and calamities. Measures are also being implemented to stimulate commercial feed production, addressing a significant annual feed deficit and reducing post-harvest feed losses.
Additionally, the government is developing the Animal Identification and Traceability System (ANITRAC) to improve market access, enable credit and insurance access using identified livestock as collateral, and curb theft and illegal movement.