The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) has stepped up efforts to boost pig breeding in a bid to meet the growing demand for pork and piglets across the country. Through its affiliate, the Dairy Training Institute (DTI) in Naivasha, KALRO is spearheading the development and promotion of high-yield pig breeds suitable for Kenya’s climate and market needs.
Agriculture remains a key pillar of Kenya’s economy, contributing about 30% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and providing livelihoods to over 70% of the rural population. Within this sector, livestock plays a significant role, contributing 12% to the national GDP. While beef and dairy dominate livestock output, the pig industry is emerging as a fast-growing sub-sector driven by increased urban consumption of pork and pork products such as sausages and bacon.
In 2023, Kenya produced 40,055 tonnes of pork from 840,160 pigs, generating KSh 19.5 billion. The demand for pork is rising steadily, with per capita consumption projected to hit 0.4 kg per person annually by 2026. Responding to this trend, KALRO has developed and is now recommending four main pig breeds: Large White, Landrace, Duroc, and Hampshire. These breeds are known for their rapid growth, high meat yield, and adaptability.
According to McDonald Githinji, head of the pig rearing section at DTI, the new piglets mature within 4-6 months and reach market weight of about 130 kg. A well-fed pig can fetch between KSh 15,000 and KSh 20,000, with farmers earning up to KSh 7,000 in profit per animal.
Pig farming is gaining popularity, especially in urban and peri-urban areas such as Nairobi, Nakuru, and Kiambu. The intensive rearing system requires minimal space, making it suitable even for smallholder farmers. Githinji encourages youth and aspiring farmers to explore pig farming as a profitable venture that meets a growing consumer demand while offering high returns.
