This archive report was first published on 14 September 2019.
At the Mombasa Agricultural Show, farmers from Taita Taveta and Kilifi counties showcased their prize-winning livestock, with some selling their animals for up to Sh450,000.
Among the winners was a farmer from Taita Taveta County, who sold his Ayrshire cow, Squta, for Sh450,000 after it emerged top in the breed category.
The farmer, who wished to remain anonymous, started his business with Sh50,000 after quitting employment and sought lessons at the Farmers Training Centre in Ngerenyi, Taita Taveta.
He later sold the cow at an auction, with his target price being Sh150,000, but he was happy that it was bought at thrice the amount.
Another winner was Moses Chitawi, a livestock handler at Anthony Maina's Mavuno Farm in Kilifi County, whose dairy cow, Tiger, emerged the best overall cow at the show.
Anthony Maina, the owner of Mavuno Farm, said he started keeping dairy cattle in Kilifi due to affordability and availability of land.
He milks 35 litres per day from Tiger, which has so far calved thrice, and employs 12 people to help him manage his farm.
He also sells some milk raw and adds value to the rest by making yoghurt and sour milk (mala) that he sells in Malindi town.
Another winner was Boniface Tole, 22, of Farmtrama in Mwatate, Taita Taveta County, whose dairy animal emerged the best Friesian cow at the show.
According to him, their animal won due to good udder space, placement of the legs, backline, high milk production, and cleanliness.
ASK chief executive Bartram Muthoka said to enter the trade fair, one must have a healthy cow that is free of diseases.
He also said that the judges visit the farm before allowing the farmer to enter the competition.
The trade fair attracted over 420 livestock from the region, unlike last year's 370.
