KARLO unveils new high-yield hybrid cow to boost dairy sector

KENYA – The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) has introduced a new hybrid dairy cow developed by crossing the high-yielding Friesian breed with the hardy indigenous Sahiwal.

The new breed is expected to produce more milk, offer improved quality, and demonstrate stronger resistance to common livestock diseases — a breakthrough aimed at transforming Kenya’s dairy sector.

Speaking in Kinoro, Igoji West, South Imenti, Meru, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said the innovation is part of a long-term national plan to improve dairy productivity and enhance farmers’ earnings across the country.

Kagwe noted that although Meru County consistently ranks among the highest milk-producing regions in Kenya, farmers continue to incur substantial losses due to inadequate storage facilities that lead to milk spoilage.

To address the challenge, the CS flagged off a new batch of milk coolers destined for various dairy-producing zones in Meru. The equipment, he said, will help stabilize milk supply, extend freshness and significantly reduce wastage.

Additionally, CS Kagwe also urged farmers to prioritize the quality of animal feed, warning that contamination with aflatoxins often leads to rejection of Kenyan dairy products in international markets, particularly in Europe.

He encouraged dairy farmers to upscale production, revealing that Kenya has secured new export markets, positioning dairy as a future powerhouse for agricultural revenue

Livestock Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke revealed that Meru has already received 14 milk coolers, six of which are powered by solar energy. He said that solar technology will cut farmers’ operational costs, boosting overall profitability.

Mueke added that government-backed development programmes under the Kenya Kwanza administration — including the NYOTA programme, modern markets, and other empowerment initiatives — have strengthened public confidence in national leadership.

He pointed to the recent Mbeere North by-election victory as evidence of growing public trust and hinted that continued delivery of such projects will shape the 2027 political landscape.

KALRO introduces improved dairy breeds amid climate change

In 2022, KALRO introduced a superior dairy cow breed, significantly boosting milk output in Narok County.

The breeders from the Maasai community in Trans Mara South have been incorporated into a community-based genetic improvement and multiplication programme funded by the government through the National Research Fund (NRF) for a three-year programme to restock the superior Sahiwal breed.

According to the breeders’ spokesperson, Mr. Wilson Kibeno, the KALRO-led programme has assisted the community to produce 309 superior Sahiwal AI calves, which have been distributed among members of the community-based breeding scheme in Trans Mara.

Speaking at Rift Valley Institute of Science and Technology during a farmers’ field day organized by the Kenya Livestock Breeders Association, Mr. Kibeno explained that through the programme, 65 farmers and extension personnel have also been trained on good Sahiwal cattle management practices. The group showcased their improved animals during the field day.

Currently, the spokesman notes that accessing the right Sahiwal heifers and bulls at affordable prices has been a nightmare for many farmers, especially Maasai pastoralists across the country, who rely heavily on Sahiwal genetic resources for their livelihoods.

Compared with the small indigenous zebu, which is the dominant variety in Narok County, Mr. Kibeno points out that the new breed produces five to 15 litres more milk per day.

Subscribe to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa, the Middle East and around the world. SUBSCRIBE HERE