The in-calf Ayrshire cows being loaded ready for onboarding onto the aircraft at the Eldoret International Airport on July 26, 2025. /MATHEWS NDANYI
Uasin Gishu county has made a historic move by exporting 50 in-calf Ayrshire heifers to Nigeria, marking a significant boost to the livestock sector.
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In-calf Ayrshire heifers are young Ayrshire cows that are pregnant for the first time and are typically entering their first milk-producing cycle.
The initiative represents the county's first major export through Eldoret International Airport.
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County officials have hailed the development as a major milestone and a vital step in Uasin Gishu’s mission to economically uplift farmers while positioning itself as a leader in quality livestock production.
The heifers, sourced by Kinanie Agrovet Suppliers Ltd from farmers across the county, were flown directly from Eldoret International Airport to Nigeria.
This marked the county’s first-ever air export of livestock to West Africa.
Governor Jonathan Bii expressed excitement over the achievement, saying it reflects ongoing investment in livestock development under his Nguzo Kumi agenda, which focuses on agricultural transformation and economic empowerment.
“We are proud of this move to export our livestock because it opens new markets and frontiers for our farmers in this region,” said Bii.
The in-calf heifers being loaded on the aircraft at the Eldoret International Airport on July 26, 2025. /MATHEWS NDANYI
Speaking at the flag-off event, Chief Officer for Agriculture and Livestock Development Abraham Kiptalam credited the success to the county’s proactive efforts in the livestock sector.
“This is the outcome of Governor Bii’s strong commitment to livestock development,” Kiptalam said.
“From subsidized AI services and revamped cattle dips to enhanced disease control and extension support, our initiatives have improved breed quality and opened global market opportunities for our farmers,” he added.
Head of Veterinary Services at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Dr Ibrahim Mohammed, commended Uasin Gishu for its strict adherence to export standards.
He underscored the importance of maintaining the required export protocols to ensure continued access to international markets.
He further emphasised that while this is the first shipment to Nigeria from the county, Uasin Gishu holds strong potential to export to many more countries.
Dr Sylvester Malei, Director of Kinanie Agrovet Suppliers Ltd, confirmed that several countries across the Middle East, West Africa, and East Africa have shown interest in livestock breeds from Uasin Gishu.
Dr Malei noted that the heifers met stringent international health and production standards, a testament to the strength of the county’s veterinary infrastructure and the dedication of its farmers.
Livestock from Uasin Gishu has already entered regional markets in Rwanda, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Other countries, including Saudi Arabia, have also expressed interest in livestock from the region.
Dr Malei added that the animals exported to Nigeria were intended for breeding purposes and were selected for their high quality and adaptability to varied climates.