Kenya to import sheep and goat genetic material from the United Kingdom

KENYA – Kenya has signed a new trade agreement with the United Kingdom to import sheep and goat genetic material, including embryos, live breeding animals, and gametes.

The deal, valued at about US$700,000 (KES 92 million) per year, was confirmed on Monday, November 10, by the UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

Kenya’s livestock sector currently contributes about 42% to the country’s agricultural GDP, making it one of the most vital areas of the economy. Authorities believe that improved animal genetics will increase productivity, enhance breeding performance, and raise the overall quality of local livestock.

According to Defra, “The agreement allows Kenyan importers to access high-quality British livestock genetics, supporting sustainable growth in the country’s animal production sector.”

The United Kingdom is widely recognised for its top-performing breeds such as the Suffolk, British Friesland, and East Friesian sheep, which are known for their high yields in both milk and meat production.

A senior official from Kenya’s State Department for Livestock noted that “our focus is to build stronger, more productive herds that can meet growing domestic and export market needs. The use of quality genetics is a key part of that effort.”

Rising demand and export growth

Kenya’s demand for goat and sheep meat has surged in recent years, both locally and internationally.

According to data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), goat meat production rose by 74.4% to 97,436 tons between 2022 and 2024.

Over the same period, sheep meat output increased by 43.5% to 56,527 tons.

Exports have also grown sharply. Figures from the Trade Map platform show that shipments of sheep and goat meat more than doubled in five years, climbing from 12,508 tons in 2020 to 25,186 tons in 2024.

An industry analyst explained that “the rising global demand for high-quality protein has opened new markets for Kenyan producers. However, maintaining consistency in supply will depend on continued investment in breeding and animal health.”

Building a sustainable future

As of 2024, Kenya had about 38.4 million goats and 26.2 million sheep, according to KNBS data. The new import deal is expected to help farmers replenish their herds and increase productivity through improved breeding stock.

Agricultural experts say that the partnership with the UK could also bring in technical expertise and training for local farmers. “Beyond trade, this cooperation opens the door for knowledge exchange in breeding, disease control, and herd management,” one agricultural consultant said.

The latest move follows other ongoing efforts by Nairobi to strengthen the livestock sector and improve export competitiveness. It aligns with Kenya’s broader strategy to modernize agriculture, increase farmer incomes, and expand its share of the global meat market.

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