State to revive livestock industry, Agriculture CS Linturi says

Agriculture CS MIthika Linturi during his visit to Laikipia County.[Courtesy]

Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi says the government is putting in place measures to revive the livestock industry in the country.

Speaking at Mutara Agricultural Development Corporation Ranch in Laikipia County, Linturi said the measures are aimed at boosting meat and leather production in the country.

Some of the measures outlined include the introduction of sexed semen at a subsidised rate, cattle fattening and the introduction of livestock nutrition for farmers, among others.

"We are keen to increase productivity and change the breeds of our animals, we will be rolling out a programme to support our farmers through the provision of sexed semen at very subsidised rates as well as the transfer of knowledge on modern livestock production," said Linturi.

Echoing Linturi's sentiments, Agriculture Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke said the government would add value to the livestock sector to guarantee farmers more income.

"The leather industry is a key value chain in the country. That is why we are focusing on doubling leather production from 30 per cent in 2023 to 60 per cent in 2024," Mueke said.

Other measures include the establishment of livestock production centers, which Linturi says will boost beef and dairy farming.