Nakuru: Residents of Nakuru County are grappling with a sharp increase in the cost of meat, a crucial source of protein at the family dinner table. The price of meat has shot up by 16 percent, from Sh600 to Sh700 per kilogram, according to local vendors at meat shops.
According to Kenya News Agency, this surge in price is causing concern among families, particularly those with limited disposable incomes, as it has forced many to reduce their meat consumption or drop the delicacy altogether. A dietician based in Nakuru City, David Maina, who was interviewed today, said meat is an important part of a balanced diet, providing essential nutrients such as iron and vitamin B12. Maina observed that a decrease in meat consumption could lead to nutritional deficiencies, especially in children and pregnant women, who require these nutrients for growth and development.
The price hike, coupled with hard economic times, would force families to resort to cheaper, less nutritious alternatives, which could have long-term health implications. He added that the situation is further compounded by the high prices of green vegetables because of the ongoing drought in the county. The proprietor of the popular fast food joint, Hygienic Butcheries, Musa Kimuge, attributed the rising cost of meat to a combination of factors, including increased demand, rising production costs, and transportation expenses.
The situation is further compounded by the high cost of animal feed, which has made it more expensive for farmers to raise livestock. As a result, farmers are forced to sell their livestock at higher prices to cover their expenses, leading to increased meat prices because meat shop operators pass on the added costs to the consumers. Nakuru county administration has expressed concerns over the rising cost of meat and its potential impact on the nutritional well-being of its residents.
They are exploring ways to support local farmers and stabilize meat prices, through options such as providing subsidies for animal feeds and investing in infrastructure to reduce transportation costs. However, until these measures are implemented, families in Nakuru County will continue to struggle with the high cost of meat, potentially compromising their nutritional intake.
Businessman Musa also noted that the continued subdivision of land has reduced the grazing land and made it extremely difficult for small-scale farmers to raise livestock for beef since they don’t offer any financial benefits to families until their maturity, which sometimes can take three to seven years depending on the animal breed. The situation in Nakuru County highlights the challenges faced by many communities in accessing affordable and nutritious food. As the cost of living continues to rise, it is crucial for governments and organizations to address the root causes of food insecurity and ensure that all individuals have access to a balanced diet.