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Over 4,000 families benefit as Samburu County distributes Sahiwal heifers

The Sahiwal heifers are known for their superior milk production and ability to thrive in harsh climatic conditions.

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by STAR REPORTER

Rift-valley24 October 2024 - 17:49
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In Summary


  • The distribution, which commenced on Monday, is set to continue across all Wards in Samburu County over the next month.
  • Each heifer was ear-tagged and branded for easy tracking and future management by the county's agricultural department.
Samburu Governor Lati Lelelit (right) during the distribution of Sahiwal heifers
Samburu County Governor Lati Lelelit led the distribution of Sahiwal heifers to residents of Lower Losuk and Lodokejek Wards in Samburu West, marking a key milestone in the county's efforts to strengthen livestock production and resilience.
The event, which attracted hundreds of local pastoralists, was part of the county government's initiative to support livestock farmers by providing them with high-quality, resilient cattle.
The distribution, which commenced on Monday, is set to continue across all Wards in Samburu County over the next month.
The Sahiwal heifers, known for their superior milk production and ability to thrive in harsh climatic conditions, were carefully selected and inspected by veterinary and animal production officers.
Each heifer was ear-tagged and branded for easy tracking and future management by the county's agricultural department.
Speaking at the event, Governor Lelelit emphasised the importance of enhancing livestock quality to improve the livelihoods of Samburu’s pastoral communities.
“Today’s distribution of Sahiwal heifers is a direct investment in the economic empowerment of our people," Lelelit said.
"By providing these superior breeds, we are not only boosting household incomes but also securing the future of livestock farming in this county,” the Governor said.
He also highlighted that more than 4,000 families have benefited from the county's livestock distribution programme since it started more than two years ago.
Sahiwal heifers being marked during the distribution to communities at a ward in Samburu

Chief Officer for Livestock, Saiwana Lekerpes, who oversaw the technical aspects of the program, assured the community that the heifers met all necessary health and breed standards.

Lekerpes highlighted that the initiative will increase the productivity of local herders, helping them adapt to the region’s challenging environmental conditions.

County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries Development, Leluata Moses, who also attended the event, offered blessings for the successful integration of the new heifers into the community.

Moses expressed confidence that this initiative would lead to long-term benefits, not just for the recipients but for the entire county.

As part of Samburu County's broader strategy under Governor Lelelit’s leadership, the distribution is aimed at bolstering livestock farming, enhancing food security, and promoting economic resilience in arid and semi-arid regions.

Hundreds of households in Lower Losuk and Lodokejek Wards are expected to benefit from today’s event, with positive impacts anticipated for the region’s agricultural output.

Governor Lelelit also announced that the county government plans to distribute high-breed camels after the completion of the Sahiwal programme in a month.

This camel distribution aims to further enhance livestock resilience and productivity in Samburu's arid regions, offering an alternative source of livelihood for pastoralists.

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