In a first-of-its-kind move, Uasin Gishu County has exported 50 in-calf Ayrshire heifers to Nigeria's Ogun State, in an effort to boost the county's livestock industry and economically empower farmers.
The cows, which were exported on Friday 25 July, are said to have some of the best genetics in East Africa. They were sourced from various farmers in the county before being flown out via Eldoret International Airport.
Although the county did not disclose the sale price, it is said that the farmers made a significant profit as they were selling on international terms.
"The impact of this exercise on our farmers is quite immense. Number one is the economic impact, now our farmers are getting maximum profit from selling the cattle," Uasin Gishu Chief Officer for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Abraham Kiptalam, said.
According to the Uasin Gishu County Government, this export is in line with the county's Nguzo Kumi agenda, particularly with regard to the pillar on agricultural transformation.
Strategic investments in the livestock sector, including subsidised AI services, upgraded cattle dips and enhanced disease control, have significantly improved breed quality and opened up access to international markets.
''We have the link to investors in West Africa and are trying to introduce the breed to West Africa. We are exporting this Cargo to Ogun State, Nigeria,'' another officer said during the flagging of the cow.
"They have tried cows from South Africa with little success, so we look to harness a lot of that potential from Uasin Gishu county, which has the best genetics of any livestock you can find across East Africa," the officer continued.
Chief Officer for Economic Planning, Nixon Cheplong, lauded the achievement as a direct result of Governor Bii’s vision and commitment to livestock development.
The Director of Veterinary Services, Philip Biama, confirmed that livestock from Uasin Gishu has already reached Rwanda, Uganda, and Tanzania, and that Saudi Arabia has also expressed interest.
He emphasised that the exported heifers meet rigorous international health and production standards, which is a testament to the country's robust veterinary systems and committed farmers.
The livestock sector contributes about 12 per cent to Kenya’s GDP and supports over 6 million pastoralists.
