The Kenya Animal Genetic Resources Centre (KAGRC) is taking a bold step toward transforming the country’s dairy and meat production by introducing Artificial Insemination (AI) technology for goats. This initiative aims to enhance productivity and improve food security by equipping farmers with advanced selective breeding techniques.
Speaking at an open day event for goat dairy farmers at the Kutus Ahiti Domba Centre in Kirinyaga County, KAGRC Managing Director Bernadette Misoi emphasized the significance of AI in modern farming. She described it as a groundbreaking technology that will help farmers maximize their yields and improve the quality of their livestock.
“Today is a great day for us as we engage with goat dairy farmers, a key segment of livestock farming. AI in goats is a new technology that we are introducing to farmers, with the main objective of increasing productivity. Through selective breeding, we are producing the best semen from our top breeds to ensure higher milk production and better-quality meat,” said Dr. Misoi.
The event, which attracted a large number of farmers, provided a platform for interaction, knowledge-sharing, and preparation for the official commissioning of a new breeding center in the next two months.
Dr. Misoi explained that KAGRC has a variety of superior male breeds at its stations, used to produce high-quality semen for artificial insemination. The focus is on both dairy and meat breeds, ensuring that farmers have access to top-tier genetic material to enhance their herd.
Expressing her delight at the large turnout, Dr. Misoi underscored the importance of educating farmers about this new technology.
“We are happy to see farmers showing great interest in this initiative. Information is power, and we want to continue passing it on to ensure that farmers make informed decisions. KAGRC works with a network of agents, distributors, universities, and suppliers who provide the necessary chemicals and equipment for our laboratories. It is a collaborative effort that will drive this sector forward,” she said.
The Kenyan government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, has set ambitious goals to enhance food security and improve livestock breeding. Currently, Kenya produces approximately five billion liters of milk annually, with a target of doubling this to 10 billion liters by 2027. The introduction of AI technology in goat farming is expected to play a crucial role in achieving this goal.
Dr. Misoi highlighted the broader impact of the initiative, stating that increased milk and meat production will not only enhance food security but also create employment opportunities and boost farmers’ incomes.
“The main role of KAGRC is to provide farmers with the best genetic material to enhance production. Breeding is a critical aspect of livestock farming, and by improving the quality of our breeds, we can help farmers achieve better yields and higher profits,” she added.
As Kenya moves toward modernizing its agricultural sector, AI technology in goat farming is expected to be a game-changer. By embracing innovative breeding techniques, farmers will be better positioned to meet the rising demand for dairy and meat products while contributing to the country’s economic growth.
The upcoming commissioning of the breeding center will mark a significant milestone in this journey, further solidifying Kenya’s position as a leader in livestock genetics and sustainable farming.
“We are engaged in selective breeding, producing, preserving, and conserving animal genetic material, including semen, embryos, tissue, and live animals. Additionally, we are breeding high-quality sires to provide disease-free semen for both the national and export markets,” said Dr. Misoi.
KAGRC has also been at the forefront of improving cattle breeds for both milk and meat production. The center supplies semen for breeds such as Friesian, Ayrshire, Guernsey, Jersey, Sahiwal, and Boran, as well as Magic 50. The number of bulls per breed is determined by farmer demand.
James Murimi Gichovi, a goat farmer from Kirinyaga, expressed his appreciation for the open day event, stating that it had been highly beneficial.
“I have been using traditional methods to breed my goats, but after attending this event, I will switch to AI technology. I have struggled to find male goats to serve my livestock, but now I am proud to say I will be among those embracing this new technology. I have learned that improving my goat breeds will increase the value of their offspring, which means better prices when selling them,” said Murimi.
He also noted that the AI service fee of 500 shillings is affordable compared to the challenges of sourcing breeding services manually.
“The open day has been an eye-opener. I have also learned that there are special salts and vitamins specifically made for goats, which I will start using instead of the ones meant for cows,” he added.
Murimi urged fellow goat farmers to attend agricultural open days and similar events, emphasizing that such forums provide valuable insights into new advancements in animal farming.
With KAGRC leading the way in AI for goats, the future of Kenya’s dairy and meat production looks promising, offering farmers greater efficiency and profitability while strengthening the country’s food security efforts.
