President Ruto lowers cost of sexed semen from Ksh.8K to Ksh.3K in boost for dairy farmers

In his address during Madaraka Day celebrations in Bungoma, President Ruto outlined a comprehensive plan aimed at enhancing genetics, improving disease control, and ensuring the welfare of livestock farmers across the nation.

"I have directed that the cost of sexed semen be brought down from KSh8,000 to under KSh3,000 which will enable dairy farmers to increase the production and productivity of milk," said Ruto.

The Head of State said Kenya Animal Genetic Resource Centre has already distributed 900,000 doses of bull semen to farmers, with a focus on increasing production and productivity. 

Ruto further emphasized the importance of genetic improvement in the goat sector, highlighting the establishment of a Goat Artificial Insemination Station in Kirinyaga County. 

This facility, he said, has already produced 48,000 doses of goat semen and trained 80 goat inseminators, signalling a significant step forward in enhancing the genetic potential of Kenya's goat population.

Recognizing the critical role of veterinary services in safeguarding animal and human health, President Ruto underscored the modernization efforts of the Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute. 

In 2023 alone, President Ruo said the institute produced 35 million doses of assorted livestock vaccines, ensuring the availability of high-quality vaccines to farmers nationwide.

"Veterinary services are essential to safeguard animal and human health, improve animal welfare and productivity and ensure the production of safe, high-quality animals and thus promote food security and domestic, as well as international trade," he said.

In a bid to combat livestock diseases and pests, President Ruto announced the launch of a national vaccination programme targeting the eradication of PPR disease and the control of Foot and Mouth Disease. 

"Under this programme, more than 22 million cattle will be vaccinated against foot and mouth disease, while 50 million goats will be vaccinated through a collaborative nationwide exercise," he said.