Livestock Farmers Face Severe Blow as Animal Feed Costs Surge 45% Amid Raw Material Shortages

Kenyan livestock farmers brace for major financial strain. A sharp shortage of key raw materials has driven animal feed prices up by 45% in recent months. This hits dairy, poultry, and beef producers hard.

The rise threatens to push up costs for milk, eggs, and meat. It puts pressure on household budgets and national food security.

Shortage Hits Core Ingredients

The Association of Kenya Feed Manufacturers (AKEFEMA) reports scarcity in essential inputs. These include maize germ, soybean meal, canola, and sunflower cake.

Maize forms about 40% of standard feed mixes. Its price has jumped 45% since early 2025. Local production falls short of demand.

Kenya consumes around 4 million metric tonnes of maize yearly. Output averages 3.5 million tonnes. Imports fill the gap but face high costs and supply issues.

Protein-rich components like soybean meal rely heavily on imports from Malawi, Zambia, Uganda, and beyond. Global and regional disruptions worsen the deficit.

Rising Prices Strain Production

A 70-kilogram bag of dairy or layer mash now averages Sh3,500. This marks a steep increase from previous levels.

Feed makes up 70-90% of livestock production costs. Higher prices squeeze margins for smallholders and commercial operations.

Poultry farmers face particular pressure. Egg prices have climbed up to 20% in some markets due to feed costs and seasonal demand.

Dairy producers see reduced profitability. Many struggle to maintain herd sizes or invest in better genetics.

Wider Impact on Livestock Sector

The crunch adds to existing challenges. Drought in some areas cuts pasture availability. Farmers turn more to commercial feeds.

The livestock sector supports millions of livelihoods. It contributes significantly to rural incomes and GDP.

Rising feed costs could lead to lower output. This risks supply shortfalls for key proteins like milk and meat.

Consumers face higher retail prices. This hits urban and rural households alike.

Industry Calls for Relief Measures

Feed millers urge policy support. Suggestions include lower import duties on raw materials or incentives for local production.

New facilities like the De Heus plant in Athi River aim to boost supply. It adds 240,000 tonnes capacity yearly.

Officials promote alternatives. These include better local sourcing and research into affordable formulations.

Outlook Remains Challenging

Farmers hope for stabilization soon. Upcoming harvests or import adjustments could ease pressure.

Without quick fixes, many may cut back on operations. This could deepen food insecurity risks.

Stakeholders stress urgent action. Coordinated efforts across government, millers, and farmers remain vital to protect the sector.