The government has announced its latest move in ensuring that all livestock destined for export are traceable through a digital platform. This is in an effort to enhance Kenya’s access to international markets.
In his address to the press on Monday, Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture Mutahi Kagwe said that animals destined for export are expected to be traceable. He said this can be done through a platform called ANITRAC.
The platform works by using digital tags attached to animals. These tags are used to store vital information. This includes data which can be used to trace animals from the time of birth to the time of sale or slaughter.
“Going forward, any animal being exported must be traceable. That is why we have introduced ANITRAC,” said Kagwe.
The platform is expected to enhance Kenya’s access to international markets. In addition, it is expected to curb cases of livestock theft. It is also expected to give buyers in international markets confidence in Kenya’s products.
Kagwe made the remarks during the inauguration of a new board at the Kenya Veterinary Board, where over 1,300 veterinary interns were also inducted into the profession.
Kagwe pointed out that the shift in the sector to digital platforms is changing the way the livestock sector operates and that the veterinarians will be instrumental in making it a success.
“This is not just about technology. It is about changing the way in which veterinary services are delivered, including the decisions made based on data,” he added.
Kenya mainly exports livestock and meat products to countries in the Middle East, with goats, sheep, and camels dominating the export market.
Currently, the export of meat products is valued at KSh13 billion as of 2024, while the export of live animals is valued at KSh2.2 billion as of 2024.
However, Kagwe also pointed out that the country has lost KSh300 million daily due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has affected trade in the region.
Because of this, the government is now looking to establish other markets to reduce overdependence on the region.
It is believed that the new system will help the country remain competitive in the market by meeting the stringent standards in the export market and creating more trust in the livestock products.
