The government, in collaboration with stakeholders in the livestock industry, is championing the Livestock Bill 2024 to address unethical practices and ensure adherence to quality standards. The legislative proposal seeks to establish a robust regulatory framework for livestock-related industries, safeguarding livelihoods, promoting growth, and bolstering Kenya’s market share both locally and internationally.
Dr. Christopher Wanga, Director of Livestock Policy Research and Regulations at the State Department for Livestock, emphasized that the bill aims to bring order and oversight to previously unregulated sectors, such as animal feeds. Speaking to the media, Wanga noted that the livestock sector is a cornerstone of Kenya’s economy, particularly in arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs), where 70% of the livestock population is found and nearly 90% of residents depend on it for their livelihoods.
“This legislative proposal introduces transformative measures to revitalize unregulated value chains and create an enabling environment. It will benefit farmers, livestock keepers, and national and county governments while enhancing the economy,” Wanga stated.
Key Provisions of the Livestock Bill
The Livestock Bill seeks to establish critical livestock institutions under substantive law, replacing the current reliance on legal notices. Key institutions to be formalized include:
- Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute
- Kenya Animal Genetics Resource Centre
- Kenya Leather Development Council (KLDC)
- Kenya Tsetse and Trypanosomiasis Eradication Council
Additionally, the Kenya Agriculture and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO) will be restructured into the Kenya Livestock Research Organisation (KLRO) under the new framework.
The bill also proposes the creation of two new regulatory bodies:
- Livestock Inputs and Products Regulatory Authority (LIPRA):
- Oversee production, importation, exportation, and sale of animal feed and other livestock products.
- Regulate genetic resources, livestock inputs, and set standards for extension services.
- Livestock and Livestock Products Marketing Board (LLPMB):
- Advise national and county governments on production and marketing of livestock.
- Promote trade, collect market intelligence, and support infrastructure development for livestock markets.
Boosting Economic Potential
The bill underscores the untapped potential of Kenya’s livestock, which is primarily raised on natural pasture. This production method positions Kenya to attract niche markets demanding high-quality, residue-free livestock products.
Stakeholders in the industry have voiced strong support for the bill. Joseph Karuri, chairman of the Association of Kenya Animal Feeds Manufacturers (AKEFEMA), praised the proposed law, noting its potential to unlock investment and curtail exploitation by unqualified practitioners.
“The lack of quality control has hampered growth in the livestock industry. Enacting this bill will create an enabling environment for ethical practices, attract investors, and stimulate development,” Karuri said.
Future Outlook
First published in June 2023, the Livestock Bill 2024 is poised to revolutionize the livestock sector by fostering accountability, improving quality control, and ensuring a level playing field for all stakeholders. Once enacted, the bill is expected to protect farmers from substandard services, drive high growth, and open new market opportunities both locally and internationally.
