Livestock insurance gains pace in push to boost farmers’ incomes

Cows and donkeys at an empty water trough at Ndovoini borehole in Ukasi, Kitui County. The livestock insurance scheme will be rolled out in the 23 counties located in arid and semi-arid lands. [PHOTO:PHILIP MUASYA/STANDARD]

Kenya: Kenya’s livestock sector is receiving renewed interest from Government and private sector players as global demand for red meat rises.

The trend, which is underpinned by an expanding urban, middle class in emerging markets in Africa, Asia and South America, is expected to boost livestock farmers’ earnings, while at the same time shielding them from exploitative cartels and cattle rustlers.