According to the Kenya Agriculture and Livestock Research Organization, Kenya is home to over 18 million cattle. These include the Sahiwal, indigenous breeds such as Zebu and Boran, exotic western breeds such as Holstein, Frisian, Jersey, and Guernsey, and breed crosses.
The average cost of a dairy cow ranges between Ksh. 28,000 and Ksh. 250,000 in Kenya. However, livestock prices in Kenya differ according to the animal’s breed, weight, and gender. Cows are also priced differently depending on whether they are dairy or beef cows.
Types of Cattle Breeds in Kenya and Their Costs
The biggest question most people, especially dairy farmers, often ask themselves is: how much does it cost to buy a cow in Kenya? The following are cattle breeds and the total cost required to purchase them:
Dairy Breeds
1. Friesian
The Friesian is a large dairy cattle breed that originated in northern Holland. It is distinguished by its large size and sharply defined by blended black and white spots. They have long been popular among Kenyan dairy farmers for their high milk-producing ability. But the big question is, how much is a Friesian cow in Kenya?
The cost of a Friesian dairy cow in Kenya ranges between Ksh. 120,000 and Ksh. 140,000. However, the price varies depending on the cow’s age, milk productivity rate, and pregnancy. Young and pregnant Friesian cows cost more compared to older ones.
2. Jersey
Jersey is a breed of small, short-horned dairy cattle that originated in France. A Jersey is typically cream in colour, but some have darker shades, which are also common. Jersey milk is exceptionally high in butterfat, so animals of this breed are in high demand due to their high butterfat percentage in milk. After learning this, you will surely want to know how much a jersey cow costs in Kenya.
The cost of a Jersey cow in Kenya ranges between Ksh. 85,000 and Ksh. 90,000. A Jersey cow’s price in Kenya entirely depends on the cow’s age, gestation, and lactation. Lactating and pregnant Jersey cows make more money compared to young and non-pregnant ones.
Bulls
The cost of a bull in Kenya ranges between Ksh. 150,000 and Ksh. 300,000 depending on the weight, age, and breed. Another determining factor affecting a bull’s price in Kenya is market price demand.
In Kenya, the most common bull breed is the Boran. Boran bulls come in different prices primarily due to differences in age and maturity. A Boran calf will cost cheaper compared to a fully grown Boran bull.
A Boran calf is cheaper than a fully grown Boran bull. But really, how much is a Boran calf in Kenya? A Boran calf costs between Ksh. 100,000 and Ksh. 140,000.
In Kenya, a Boran bull would be more expensive than a Boran calf. Most beef farmers are curious to know, for example, how much a Boran bull costs in Kenya. The price of a Boran bull ranges from Ksh. 170,000 to Ksh. 300,000.
Reasons Why the Boran Bull Breed is Costly in Kenya
The main reason the Boran bull is expensive in Kenya is its ability to adapt to a wide range of climatic conditions. Its short, shiny coat and excellent heat tolerance allow it to outperform many other breeds in hot, humid climates.
In cold conditions, it develops a thick, loose coat that, along with its oily hair, allows it to withstand extreme cold and wet conditions. Natural selection has also resulted in the Boran becoming highly resistant to the effects of internal and external parasites such as ticks.
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