Kenya to Stock National Feed Reserves to Protect Livestock from Drought

Kenya is setting up national animal feed reserves to shield livestock from the repeated droughts that have killed more than 2.5 million animals and cost pastoralists over Sh50 billion. Agriculture and Livestock Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe announced the plan in Embu County, stressing that the country can no longer rely on emergency measures after each dry spell.

Source: crisisgroup

The reserves will include hay, silage, and other drought-resistant fodder. Feed will be stored during periods of surplus and distributed early during dry conditions, using early warning systems to prevent livestock deaths and reduce losses for herders.

County governments will coordinate feed planning and distribution, while farmer cooperatives will deliver the supplies directly to livestock owners. “Counties understand local needs, and cooperatives are the fastest way to reach farmers,” Kagwe said, pointing out that this system will stop distress sales and unnecessary animal deaths.

The government is also tightening livestock movement controls to limit the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease and other animal illnesses that spike during drought migrations. Vaccination campaigns are being intensified, and livestock checkpoints will enforce stricter biosecurity measures to contain outbreaks.

Kagwe urged dairy farmers to focus on feeding and managing cows efficiently instead of increasing herd sizes. He noted that Embu County produces roughly 101.3 million litres of milk each year, but average production per cow is only about eight litres per day. With better nutrition and management, yields could more than triple without adding more cows.

To support dairy farmers, the government has approved funding for additional milk coolers to reduce spoilage and ensure farmers are paid for higher-quality milk. Combined with the feed reserves and disease control measures, the plan aims to keep animals alive, maintain farmers’ incomes, and ensure milk and meat supplies remain steady during droughts.