Kenya–UK partnership lowers sexed semen cost to boost dairy sector

KENYA – The Kenya Animal Genetic Resources Centre (KAGRC) and the Genus ABS, a leading animal genetics company, have agreed to lower the price of sexed semen to Ksh1,000, which will significantly benefit Kenyan dairy farmers.

The deal aims to boost the country’s milk productivity by utilising sexed semen technology, which selectively increases the likelihood of producing female calves (heifers) essential for consistent milk yields.

By enabling farmers to breed more heifers, this initiative promises better milk productivity and stronger economic returns.

“Good news for our dairy farmers! The cost of sexed semen has been slashed from Ksh 2,900 to Ksh 1,000. This is a huge boost to our dairy sector—more heifers, more milk, more income,” said Jonathan Mueke, Principal Secretary, State Department of Livestock Development.

The deal aligns with President Ruto’s agricultural commitment to improving food security in the country while modernising farming methods and reducing reliance on imported dairy products.

With the price reduction, farmers are expected to massively adopt sexed semen across the country, boosting milk yields, which has been a major challenge for livestock farmers.

Kenyan government unveils strategies to double milk production

In 2024, the Kenyan government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, has introduced a series of measures to increase the country’s milk production from 5.2 billion litres to 10 billion litres annually.

This initiative aims to improve small-scale farmers’ average monthly incomes to Sh56,000.

Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary (CS) Dr. Andrew Karanja emphasized that achieving these goals requires a united effort from all stakeholders, including farmers, cooperatives, processors, and government agencies.

During the launch of the 2024 Cost of Milk Production Study Report at the Kenya Dairy Board (KDB) headquarters, Dr. Karanja outlined key strategies that will address the challenges of productivity, value addition, and market access for milk and dairy products.

“The discussions between milk processors and President William Ruto have outlined a six-point agenda focused on enhancing milk productivity, reducing production costs, and improving raw milk bulking and cooling efficiency,” he said.

“We are also tackling tax barriers, establishing a development fund, and implementing new regulations to foster the sector’s growth.”

A major step toward improving milk quality and safety is the establishment of the national dairy regulatory laboratory, which is now ISO 17025 certified.

The facility is expected to enhance the testing of milk and dairy products for both domestic and export markets.

Dr. Karanja noted that the government is also procuring additional milk coolers to support farmers in bulking milk and ensuring its quality.

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