Nigeria imports 50 Scottish-bred cows from Kenya to boost dairy sector

NIGERIA – Nigeria has airlifted 50 in-calf Ayrshire heifers from Kenya’s Uasin Gishu County, in a landmark move that marks a new chapter in the country’s efforts to enhance dairy production through high-quality livestock imports.

The import is expected to boost Nigeria’s dairy sector by improving the genetic quality of local herds and enhancing milk productivity, especially as federal and state governments continue to pursue livestock transformation initiatives in line with the National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP).

The heifers, sourced by Kinanie Agrovet Suppliers from farmers across the Uasin Gishu county, were flown out of the Eldoret International Airport, marking the county’s first-ever export of quality livestock breeds to West Africa.

Dr. Sylvester Malel, Director of Kinanie Agrovet Suppliers Ltd., the Kenya News Agency (KNA), confirmed the successful shipment and revealed growing international interest in Uasin Gishu’s livestock from across Africa and the Middle East.

“These heifers met stringent international health and production standards, reflecting the strength of Uasin Gishu County’s veterinary infrastructure and the commitment by local farmers.”

Abraham Kiptalam, Chief Officer for Agriculture and Livestock Development in Uasin Gishu, explained that this reflects the county government’s dedication to modernizing livestock production and promoting a business-oriented approach to farming among local farmers.

Kiptalam noted that the initiative supports Governor Jonathan Bii’s Nguzo Kumi agenda, which includes expanding access to international markets through investment in breeding services, disease control infrastructure, and extension support.

“Continued investment in livestock development by the county government aligns with the Governor’s goal to make Uasin Gishu a regional hub for livestock breeding and international trade through a modern, farmer-focused approach to agriculture,” he added in the KNA’s report.

Nigeria aims to double milk production by 2030

Additionally, the country imported dairy cattle from Denmark as part of a plan to reduce dairy imports, which cost the country US$1.5 billion annually, and achieve the goal of self-sufficiency.

Despite boasting one of Africa’s largest cattle populations, Nigeria’s milk output of 700,000 tonnes a year lags its annual consumption of 1.6 million tonnes. This shortfall means the country imports around 60% of its milk.

Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha said Nigeria’s cattle population, exceeding 20 million, consists largely of low-yield pastoral breeds. He added that a Nigerian farm has already imported over 200 heifers from Denmark, building its herd through intensive breeding.

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