Nakuru County in Kenya is stepping up efforts to revolutionize its dairy farming sector through a partnership with international research bodies and local farmer organizations. The goal is to increase milk yields and improve herd quality, making dairy production more profitable for local households. This initiative is part of the Africa Dairy Genetic Gains (AADGG), African Dairy Genetic Gains (ADGG), and Tropical Dairy Genetic Gains (TDGG) programmes.
The programme leverages advanced breeding techniques, digital performance tracking, and animal identification systems to enhance dairy production. Chief Officer for Livestock, Fisheries, and Veterinary Services Dr. Michael Cheruiyot stated that dairy farming is a key pillar of the county's development agenda under Governor Susan Kihika. Improving dairy breed quality is crucial to increasing productivity and farmers' earnings.
The county promotes the adoption of improved breeds suitable for local agroecological conditions and strengthens access to affordable breeding services through partnerships. This includes subsidized Artificial Insemination (AI) services through the Kenya Animal Genetic Resources Centre (KAGRC). Proper animal identification and performance recording will enable farmers and livestock officers to monitor milk production and track breeding histories.
The initiative also focuses on developing community-based dairy breeding programmes, allowing farmers to collectively improve the genetic quality of their cattle and increase milk production. Chief Officer for Cooperatives Kibet Kurgat noted that dairy cooperatives provide an effective platform for reaching farmers and coordinating artificial insemination services. Elburgon Progressive and Olenguruone dairy cooperatives are actively participating in the program.
Agriculture Chief Officer Eng. Margaret Kinyanjui emphasized that improved livestock genetics, reliable farm records, and effective breeding practices are essential in raising milk production and enhancing dairy herd quality. Strengthening the link between farmers, cooperatives, and technical institutions will promote better livestock management and support sustainable agricultural livelihoods.
Senior Scientist at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) Gebregziabher Gebreyohanes stated that the initiative will use digital systems to track artificial insemination, calving, and calf performance. This will generate information that farmers and livestock experts can use to guide breeding decisions. Farmer capacity building in animal husbandry and breeding will complement the digital tracking system.
The continued collaboration between Nakuru County, research institutions, and farmers is expected to strengthen the dairy value chain and improve breeding and livestock management. Farmers will benefit from healthier and more productive herds, increased milk output, and better returns from dairy farming. The AADGG, ADGG, and TDGG initiatives focus on improving dairy cattle genetics and productivity in Africa and other tropical regions.
Key points
- Nakuru County partners with international research bodies to improve dairy farming
- The initiative aims to increase milk yields and improve herd quality
- Digital systems will be used to track artificial insemination, calving, and calf performance
