This archive report was first published on 26 November 2019.
On November 26, 2019, a significant milestone was achieved in the dairy farming sector with the opening of the Kenya Animal Genetic Resource Centre (KAGRIC) in Chuka town, Tharaka-Nithi County.
The centre, which is a partnership between the national and devolved governments, aims to promote dairy farming in the region by providing readily available and affordable cattle semen for Artificial Insemination (AI) services.
According to Principal Secretary State Department of Livestock Harry Kimutai, the county government collaborated with KAGRIC in establishing the centre by providing the house where the facilities have been installed.
"This initiative is a partnership between the devolved government and the national government and is aimed at promoting dairy farming in this region," said Kimutai.
Tharaka-Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki announced that his government will provide subsidized AI services across the county, which will be offered by veterinary officers equipped with motorbikes mounted with semen kits.
"We will make sure that all farmers can afford AI services," said Njuki, adding that the services will be available at a cost of Sh4,500 and Sh400 respectively.
The county government has also entered into a partnership with Muthiru Dairy Co-operative Society in Maara Sub County to produce and make available animal feeds at a reduced cost.
"A bag of dairy feed that was being sold at Sh2,500 is now going for Sh2,000," said Njuki.
The national government has plans to establish a sex-selected semen facility in the country and is expecting to allocate funds for the project in the next year.
Chuka/Igambang'ombe MP Patrick Munene and County Missioner Beverly Opwora expressed their commitment to collaborating with the devolved government to promote the living standards of the residents.
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