NYERI, Kenya, May 15 – Nyeri county government plans to introduce a superior breed of milk-producing goats at a cost of Sh1.8 million, with the aim of boosting the production of milk in the county.
The breed, known as French Alp, produces an average of two to three liters of milk per day, with a liter fetching Sh150.
Nyeri Agriculture County Executive James Wachihi says the County the move is expected to boost farmers’ incomes, earning them an improved livelihood.
How it will work
Wachihi said that they have purchased ninety goats both buck and doe which will be distributed to Farmers groups which will ensure the county has superior breed in three years.
“Nyeri County is one of the few counties with over 33,000 dairy goats. However, the goats produce between 0.5 and one liter thus denying farmers income and that’s why we are introducing superior breeds” said Wachihi.
Goat milk has been in high demand in the country because of its low lactose properties. Doctors recommend the milk to those suffering from non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
He said that dairy goat farming has become on the rise because they require little space for rearing, unlike other animals.
Dairy goat farming in the county was stepped up in 1992 when the federal republic of Germany through integrated small livestock project introduced the Toggenburg breed.
However, due to inbreeding, the breed has become inferior leading to low milk production and multiplication.
