EMBU, Kenya- The government, through the Ministry of Public Service, has taken a major step towards permanently cushioning livestock farmers from recurrent drought.
This is after establishing a Strategic Animal Feed Centre and National Feed Reserves in partnership with the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO).
The initiative, led by the State Department for Special Programmes, is aimed at shifting Kenya from reactive drought response to proactive, year-round preparedness, particularly for pastoralist communities in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) that have borne the brunt of climate shocks for decades.
Speaking at the KALRO Centre in Naivasha, Nakuru County, Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku said the programme will ensure livestock farmers have access to adequate and nutritious animal feeds throughout the year.
“This is about making drought-related livestock losses a thing of the past,” Ruku said.
“We are moving from emergency responses to long-term solutions that protect livelihoods, animals, and food security.”
The CS noted that more than 30 counties, largely in northern Kenya, are currently affected by drought.
He said the government is working closely with KALRO, the National Youth Service (NYS) and other public and private sector players to scale up hay production, develop feed reserves and establish sustainable feed distribution systems.
Under the programme, NYS will utilise its vast land and manpower to grow hay and other animal feed supplements in collaboration with KALRO, significantly boosting national feed capacity.
“We are incorporating the NYS because it has the capacity to produce animal feeds at scale, using both KALRO and NYS land,” Ruku said. “This will ensure farmers are cushioned throughout the year.”
Ruku assured pastoralist communities that the government has already put in place emergency measures to transport animal feeds to grazing areas where livestock are currently held, while longer-term systems are being rolled out.
“I have traversed drought-affected counties and want to assure Kenyans that there is enough food. No Kenyan will die of hunger,” he said.
Beyond feed reserves, the CS said the government is making huge investments in water provision, climate-resilient infrastructure and drought mitigation projects, which are expected to receive a major boost through the National Infrastructure Fund (NIF),
The NIF, already approved by Cabinet, is awaiting debate and enactment of the necessary legal and regulatory framework by Parliament.
“Once operationalised, the National Infrastructure Fund will significantly strengthen investments in water, climate resilience and drought preparedness across the country,” Ruku said.
He emphasized that the government is pursuing broad-based partnerships through policy frameworks and Memoranda of Understanding to ensure sustainability.
“We are a caring and supportive government. That is why we are collaborating with institutions and stakeholders to achieve sustainable animal feeds in ASAL counties,” Ruku said.
KALRO Chairperson Dr Thuo Mathenge welcomed the partnership, saying the institution has the capacity and expertise to guarantee sufficient animal feeds nationwide.
“KALRO has the potential to ensure adequate and quality animal feeds, and we will work closely with the Ministry of Special Programmes to support livestock farmers across the country,” he said.
KALRO Director General Dr Patrick Ketiem said the organization is committed to producing highly nutritious feeds, particularly for drought-stricken regions.
“This partnership strengthens Kenya’s drought preparedness and resilience. We will do whatever it takes to ensure both people and livestock are protected,” Ketiem said.
The initiative marks a decisive shift in Kenya’s approach to drought management, signalling the government’s resolve to protect pastoralist livelihoods and build long-term climate resilience.
