Northern Kenya Livestock Farmers Back Proposed Sector Policies

What changed

Northern Kenya livestock farmers and other stakeholders backed two proposed national policies during a consultation in Garissa County on November 13, 2026.

The proposals cover:

• Strategic livestock feed reserves
• Rangeland rehabilitation and certified pasture seeds
• Stronger disease surveillance
• Livestock insurance
• Clearer responsibilities for county veterinary and livestock departments

The policies are still being shaped through public participation. They have not yet been adopted.

Why it matters

For pastoralists facing drought, shrinking pasture and water supplies, and livestock disease, the most important proposal is practical: keeping feed available when grazing fails. A reserve could help prevent drought from turning directly into mass animal losses.

Rangeland restoration would address the same pressure earlier, by reseeding degraded grazing areas and supporting the regeneration of natural pasture. Better disease surveillance could also help counties protect productivity and meet requirements for regional and international livestock markets.

The policy package looks well matched to the problems stakeholders described. Its real test will be whether the proposals receive funding and are implemented consistently after adoption.