Kirinyaga County, Kenya| The Kenya Animal Genetic Resources Centre (KAGRC) is spearheading a revolutionary shift in the country’s dairy and meat production sector by introducing Artificial Insemination (AI) technology for goats.
This groundbreaking initiative is set to enhance productivity, improve breed quality, and support Kenya’s long-term food security goals.
A Bold Step Towards Modernized Livestock Farming
In collaboration with farmers, KAGRC is implementing selective breeding techniques designed to boost milk and meat yields in goat farming.
The initiative was highlighted during a farmer’s open day event at the Kutus Ahiti Domba Centre in Kirinyaga County, where stakeholders gathered to discuss the impact of AI technology in livestock farming.
KAGRC Managing Director Dr. Benadette Misoi emphasized the significance of AI in modern animal husbandry, describing it as a game-changer that will empower farmers to maximize production and profitability.
“Today is a great day for us as we engage with dairy goat farmers, a key segment of livestock farming. AI in goats is a new technology that we are introducing to farmers, with the main objective of increasing productivity. Through selective breeding, we are producing high-quality semen from superior breeds to ensure better milk production and quality meat,” she said.
Dr. Misoi explained that KAGRC maintains a variety of top-tier male breeds at its stations, which are used to produce high-quality semen for artificial insemination.
This ensures that farmers have access to superior genetics for both dairy and meat goat farming, ultimately leading to better yields and higher incomes.
Encouraging Farmer Participation and Knowledge Sharing
The event attracted a large number of farmers eager to learn about the benefits of AI in goat farming.
Dr. Misoi expressed her delight at the high turnout, noting that farmer education and awareness are critical in driving adoption of the new technology.
“We are happy to see farmers showing great interest in this initiative. Information is power, and we want to continue passing it on to ensure that farmers make informed decisions. KAGRC works closely with a network of agents, distributors, universities, and suppliers who provide the necessary chemicals and equipment for our laboratories. It is a collaborative effort that will drive this sector forward,” she added.
The event also served as a platform for preparing farmers for the official commissioning of a new breeding centre in the next two months.
This centre will further support the government’s efforts to enhance food security through improved livestock breeding programs.
Aligning with Kenya’s Food Security Goals
The Kenyan government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, has set ambitious targets to boost milk production from the current 5 billion litres annually to 10 billion litres by 2027.
AI technology in goat farming is expected to play a critical role in achieving this target by improving the efficiency and output of dairy and meat production.
Dr. Misoi reiterated KAGRC’s commitment to providing farmers with top-quality breeds that guarantee high productivity.
“Our primary role is to ensure that farmers access the best genetic material to enhance production. Breeding is a crucial aspect of livestock farming, and by improving the quality of our breeds, we can help farmers achieve better yields and higher profits,” she noted.
In addition to goats, KAGRC also supports cattle breeding by supplying semen for high-yielding dairy and beef breeds such as Friesian, Ayrshire, Guernsey, Jersey, Sahiwal, and Boran.
The demand for different breeds is largely farmer-driven, ensuring that the services provided align with market needs.
Farmers Embrace AI Technology for Goats
Many farmers who attended the open day expressed optimism about AI technology, acknowledging its potential to enhance productivity and reduce reliance on traditional breeding methods.
James Murimi Gichovi, a goat farmer from Kirinyaga, noted that the session was highly beneficial, as it opened his eyes to the advantages of AI in improving his herd’s quality.
“I have been struggling to find male goats to serve my does, but I am proud to say I will now embrace AI technology in my farming. I have learned that improving goat breeds leads to better quality offspring, which fetch higher prices in the market,” he said.
Murimi also welcomed the affordability of the AI service, which costs 500 Kenyan shillings per insemination, making it an accessible option for many farmers.
He further noted that he had learned about specialized goat supplements, such as salt and vitamins, which he had previously been using interchangeably with his cows’ feed.
“I didn’t know there were salt and vitamin supplements made specifically for goats. I will take some home today for my two goats,” he added.
Murimi encouraged fellow farmers to attend agricultural open days and similar events, emphasizing that such gatherings provide valuable insights into the latest developments in animal farming.
A Bright Future for Dairy Goat Farming in Kenya
The introduction of AI technology in goat farming marks a significant step toward modernizing Kenya’s agricultural sector.
By adopting innovative breeding techniques, farmers are better positioned to meet the rising demand for dairy and meat products, contributing to national food security and economic growth.
The upcoming launch of the new breeding centre will further cement Kenya’s position as a leader in livestock genetics and sustainable farming, ensuring that farmers have access to high-quality breeds that drive productivity and profitability.
With the support of KAGRC and the government’s agricultural policies, dairy goat farming in Kenya is on the path to transformation, offering new opportunities for farmers to improve their livelihoods and enhance the country’s agricultural landscape.
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