Goat farming in Kenya is a profitable agribusiness venture that many farmers are engaging in. The demand for goat products, especially meat, is high, and goat farming can be a reliable source of income for farmers. Here’s a comprehensive guide on goat farming in Kenya.
Goat Breeds Reared in Kenya
- Saanen Goats – Known for high milk production.
- Toggenburg Goats – Another milk-producing breed with high yields.
- German Alpine Goats – Hardy breed with excellent milk production.
- African Boer Goats – Famous for meat production.
- Barbari Goats – Ideal for meat production.
- Jamunapari Goats – Known for milk and meat.
- Black Bengal Goats – A smaller breed with excellent meat quality.
- Galla Goats – Popular in dry areas, hardy and adaptable.
- Anglo Nubian Goats – Dual-purpose breed known for both milk and meat.
Housing of Goats
Goats require a comfortable, clean, and safe environment. Key housing considerations include:
- Fencing: Strong fencing to prevent them from wandering off.
- Ventilation: Proper ventilation to prevent heat stress.
- Shade: A shaded area to protect them from the sun.
- Bedding: Fresh hay or straw is commonly used for bedding.
Feeding of Goats
Goats are ruminants, meaning they can feed on a variety of crops and plants. Here are some common feeding practices:
- Grazing: Goats can graze on grass, leaves, and shrubs.
- Formulated Feeds: Supplementary feeds can be purchased to enhance growth or aid in fattening.
- Kid Feeding: For goat kids, start them off with colostrum, followed by green leguminous fodder once they are around 5 weeks old.
Systems of Raising Goats
- Open Grazing/Extensive System:
- Goats graze freely in large fields with abundant pasture. Ideal for farmers with large land areas.
- Semi-Intensive System:
- Goats graze outdoors but are given supplementary concentrate feeds due to limited grazing land.
- Intensive System:
- Goats are fully housed, and all feeding is done within pens. They are not allowed to graze outside.
Diseases in Goats
Goats, like other livestock, are prone to certain diseases, including:
- Salmonella infection
- Tuberculosis
- Rinderpest
To prevent diseases:
- Isolate sick goats.
- Maintain proper sanitation and hygiene.
- Regular vaccination and deworming are essential.
Benefits of Rearing Goats
- Fast Growth: Goats reach maturity within 10-12 months.
- Short Gestation Period: A goat’s gestation period is around 5 months, with most starting to produce milk after 15 months.
- Low Capital Investment: Goats require less capital to raise compared to larger livestock like cattle.
- Hardy Animals: Goats can thrive in various environmental conditions.
- High Milk Production: Goat milk is rich in protein and can be harvested multiple times a day.
Market for Goats in Kenya
There is a strong market for goats, primarily for meat. Goat meat, or nyama choma, is very popular in Kenya, especially in local markets and nyama choma joints. Goats can be sold in:
- Local Open-Air Markets: A common place where goats are sold, especially on market days.
- Slaughterhouses: Farmers can sell their goats directly to slaughterhouses, often at better prices.
- Restaurants: With strong market connections, farmers can supply goat meat to high-end restaurants.
The average price for a mature goat in the market is around Kshs 6,000, but prices can vary depending on the size, breed, and market conditions.
Conclusion
Goat farming in Kenya offers a significant opportunity for farmers. The combination of relatively low startup costs, the hardiness of goats, and the growing demand for goat products, especially meat, makes it an attractive venture. Whether for small-scale or commercial farming, goats can provide steady profits while contributing to food security and the local economy.
