The government is pushing for the enactment of the Livestock Bill, 2024. This legislation seeks to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework to address unethical practices and tackle challenges undermining the industry’s growth.
Dr. Christopher Wanga, Director of Livestock Policy Research and Regulations at the Ministry of Agriculture, emphasized that the Bill is designed to restore order and enforce compliance with established regulations. It aims to ensure that all actors in the value chain operate within ethical boundaries, thereby creating a sustainable and profitable industry.
“The legislative proposal introduces transformative measures designed to revitalise and provide an enabling environment for the unregulated value chains in the livestock industries in Kenya,” Dr. Wanga noted. “This is expected to bring considerable benefits to farmers, livestock keepers, national and county government operations, and the economy.”
Addressing Critical Gaps
Kenya’s livestock sector plays a significant role in the country’s economy. About 70% of livestock populations are found in arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs), which account for nearly 90% of the population in these regions. In high-rainfall areas, the sector provides income and employment, primarily through dairy, poultry, and pig production.
However, the industry has long suffered from a lack of regulation, particularly in key areas such as animal feeds. Fraudulent actors and substandard services have hindered the sector’s growth, leaving farmers vulnerable and reducing potential income from the value chain.
The Livestock Bill, 2024, introduces regulatory oversight for previously unregulated industries. Dr. Wanga highlighted the necessity of a substantive legal framework to ensure quality regulation and to curb unethical practices.
Key Provisions
The Bill proposes the establishment of several institutions to enhance regulation and streamline operations within the livestock industry:
- Kenya Livestock Research Organisation: This will replace the existing Kenya Agriculture and Livestock Research Organisation, providing a dedicated focus on livestock research and development.
- Livestock Inputs and Products Regulatory Authority (LIPRA): Tasked with regulating the production, importation, and distribution of livestock inputs, animal feed, and genetic resources, LIPRA will also set standards for extension services and build capacity within the sector.
- Livestock and Livestock Products Marketing Board (LLPMB): This body will advise governments on livestock production and marketing, promote trade, rehabilitate infrastructure, and disseminate market intelligence.
Furthermore, the Bill seeks to establish key organizations such as the Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute, Kenya Animal Genetics Resource Centre, Kenya Leather Development Council, and the Kenya Tsetse and Trypanosomiasis Eradication Council under substantive Acts of Parliament.
Unlocking Opportunities
Stakeholders in the industry have welcomed the proposed Bill. The Association of Kenya Animal Feeds Manufacturers (Akefema) lauded it as a step in the right direction. Akefema Chairman Joseph Karuri expressed optimism that the Bill would unlock the sector’s untapped potential, creating new opportunities for local and international markets.
“For far too long, the industry has operated without sound regulation, allowing quacks to exploit farmers. This has discouraged investment and affected the quality of services and products,” Karuri said.
By introducing quality control measures and supporting market development, the Bill is expected to encourage investment and stimulate growth across the livestock sector.
A Path to Sustainability
The Livestock Bill, 2024, reflects the government’s commitment to fostering a sustainable and equitable livestock industry. With measures to protect farmers, streamline operations, and enhance marketing and infrastructure, the legislation promises to address systemic issues that have long plagued the sector.
As the Bill moves through legislative processes, stakeholders and policymakers alike are hopeful that its enactment will usher in a new era of growth and stability for Kenya’s livestock industry.
