Kirinyaga County, Kenya| In a landmark move aimed at revolutionizing livestock farming in Kenya, President William Ruto on Wednesday officially launched the region’s first-ever Goat Artificial Insemination (AI) Centre at the Animal Health and Industry Training Institute (AHITI) in Ndomba, Kirinyaga County.
This state-of-the-art facility is the first of its kind in East and Central Africa and is expected to play a transformative role in improving goat breeds, enhancing productivity, and boosting farmers’ incomes in the region.
The launch marks a significant milestone in the government’s broader strategy to strengthen food security, modernize agriculture, and improve rural livelihoods.
During the commissioning ceremony, President Ruto emphasized the strategic importance of livestock genetics in enhancing the quality and productivity of animal farming.
“The artificial insemination for goats that we have introduced will ensure that we improve our animal breeds and enhance productivity. This will further the Government’s food security agenda and boost our farmers’ earnings,” President Ruto stated.
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, who hosted the President and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, hailed the initiative as a game-changer for the county’s agricultural sector.
She noted that the centre will serve not only Kirinyaga farmers but also others across Kenya and the region, positioning the county as a key player in livestock innovation.
“We are particularly honoured to host the Goat AI Centre at Ndomba, which is not only a great treasure for our County but also a key development milestone for our Country,” Governor Waiguru remarked. “This Centre is a significant step forward in improving goat production and food security in Kirinyaga.”
Governor Waiguru highlighted the economic and nutritional benefits of goat farming, particularly for small-scale farmers who rely on both meat and milk for income and sustenance.
She noted that demand for goat products is steadily increasing in various sectors, including healthcare institutions, hotels, restaurants, and local households.
“With the right genetic improvements and more efficient farming practices, we can unlock the full potential of goat farming and provide a steady supply of quality products to meet these expanding markets,” she added.
The Governor also pointed out the ongoing efforts by the County Government to make AI services more accessible.
Through subsidized rates and trained local inseminators, farmers are receiving timely and efficient services to enhance breeding outcomes.
As part of the broader agricultural transformation agenda, the Goat AI Centre complements several other key development projects currently underway in Kirinyaga. These include:
The construction of 11 Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) markets at various stages of completion
The establishment of an Export Processing Zone (EPZ)
Ongoing development of dykes at the county’s Industrial Park
The creation of the Sagana Trauma Centre
The groundbreaking of the Kagio Modern Market
Governor Waiguru expressed deep appreciation to the national government for its commitment to supporting grassroots development and improving livelihoods in Kirinyaga.
“With these transformative projects, we are modernizing trade, empowering farmers, and strengthening Kirinyaga’s position as an agricultural and economic hub,” she said. “I appreciate the President’s unwavering support in delivering impactful development that uplifts our people.”
The launch of the Goat AI Centre is expected to stimulate economic activity in the region and serve as a model for similar initiatives across the continent.
With increased collaboration between the national and county governments, Kirinyaga is poised to become a center of excellence in agricultural innovation and livestock production.
