Nyandarua County government has rolled out a cheap artificial insemination programme targeting to improve the quality of livestock products of more than 5,000 farmers.
Ol Joro Orok Sub-County Head Dr Karanja Muiruri said it would improve the quality of animals, especially dairy, to empower farmers in meeting the ever rising demand of milk in the county and neibouring regions like Nairobi.
Artificial Insemination (AI) services offered by private veterinary officers cost from Sh1,000 to Sh1,500, but under this programme, farmers will be charged Sh700, Muiruri said.
“In addition to upgrading low yield indigenous cows to better mixed breeds, qualified unemployed youths will earn a living through the programme.
The eight we have certified are diploma or degree holders in animal health,” he said.
Seasoned dairy farmers in the region will benefit from the programme, at a lower cost.
Each of the eight AI officers have a motorcycle, which would help them manouver through the villages.
Muiruri said the motorcycles, which cost Sh90,000 each, have been given to the officers by county on loan.
They will be required to pay Sh900 per week and Sh3,000 per month.
Extension Officer Joseph Wathinja assured farmers that the semen administered is of high quality and has been certified by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Department at the county.
In addition, the officer have been certified as private practitioners, therefore, no cause for alarm.
Boosting livestock production in the county will support the horticultural a industry as well as tea, and coffee production for better economy.