In a significant development for Kenya’s dairy farmers, the cost of sexed semen has been reduced from Ksh.8,000 to Ksh.3,000, making it more affordable and accessible. This price reduction aims to boost the dairy sector by enabling farmers to improve the quality and productivity of their herds through selective breeding.
Sexed semen, which is processed to increase the likelihood of producing female calves, is highly valued in the dairy industry. Female calves are preferred because they grow into milk-producing cows, which are essential for sustaining and expanding dairy operations. The reduced cost of sexed semen will allow more farmers to invest in this technology, leading to higher milk yields and increased profitability.
The price cut is part of a broader initiative by the government and industry stakeholders to support dairy farmers and enhance the sector’s overall efficiency. By making advanced breeding technologies more affordable, the initiative seeks to address challenges such as low milk production and high operational costs that many farmers face. Additionally, the move is expected to contribute to the country’s food security by ensuring a steady supply of milk and dairy products.
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi emphasized the importance of this development, stating that the reduction in the cost of sexed semen is a strategic step towards modernizing the dairy industry. He highlighted that this measure, along with other supportive actions, will help farmers increase their herds’ productivity, reduce dependency on imported milk products, and ultimately strengthen the local dairy market.
The reduction in the cost of sexed semen represents a significant milestone for Kenya’s dairy farmers, offering them a valuable tool to enhance their breeding programs and achieve sustainable growth. As more farmers take advantage of this opportunity, the dairy sector is poised to experience substantial improvements in productivity and economic viability.
