CS Kagwe Inaugurates New KVB Board as Kenya’s Livestock Sector Embraces Transformation

Kenya’s livestock sector has entered a new era with the inauguration of a fresh Board at the Kenya Veterinary Board (KVB) and the induction of over 1,300 veterinary interns. Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe presided over the ceremony, signalling stronger regulation, technology adoption, and export ambitions for the industry.

Dr John Wilberforce Muchibi takes over as the new KVB Chairperson. The move is expected to sharpen oversight of veterinary services as the country pushes to modernise its livestock economy.

The event highlighted the sector’s growing importance to national income, food security, and public health. Kenya’s livestock contributes significantly to household livelihoods, especially in arid and semi-arid counties, while also supplying meat, milk, hides, and other products for both local and international markets.

Traceability System Declared Non-Negotiable

CS Kagwe emphasised that future livestock exports will depend on strict compliance and credibility. He singled out the Animal Identification and Traceability System (ANITRAC) as a cornerstone of the new approach.

“Moving forward, exporting animals to international markets must have traceability. That is why we have ANITRAC,” Kagwe said.

The system aims to create a digital record for animals from farm to market. Officials believe ANITRAC will help Kenya meet stringent sanitary and phytosanitary requirements in key export destinations and reduce disease outbreaks.

Youth Empowerment Through Intern Induction

The induction of more than 1,300 veterinary interns forms a key part of the strategy to inject fresh talent into the sector. The young professionals will receive hands-on training and mentorship to strengthen animal health services across the country.

Kagwe described the interns as critical to achieving a modern, data-driven livestock industry. Their deployment is expected to improve disease surveillance, vaccination campaigns, and extension services, particularly in regions where access to qualified veterinarians remains limited.

Focus on Technology and Global Standards

The new KVB Board will play a central role in enforcing professional standards, registering practitioners, and promoting continuous skills development. Its work aligns with broader government goals of transforming Kenya into a reliable supplier of livestock products on the global stage.

Stakeholders say the combination of improved regulation, digital traceability, and youth involvement will help address long-standing challenges such as foot-and-mouth disease, peste des petits ruminants, and trade barriers caused by inadequate documentation.

The livestock sector supports millions of Kenyans through pastoralism, dairy farming, and commercial ranching. A more organised and technology-enabled approach is seen as vital for increasing productivity, enhancing food safety, and expanding earnings from exports.

New Leadership to Drive Reforms

Dr Muchibi and his board members assume office at a pivotal moment. They will be expected to work closely with county governments, the Directorate of Veterinary Services, and private sector players to implement reforms.

As the ceremony concluded, optimism was high that these developments will place Kenya’s livestock industry on a stronger footing. With ANITRAC gaining momentum and young veterinarians entering the field, the sector appears poised for measurable growth in the coming years.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development has indicated that further measures to support value addition, market access, and climate resilience in livestock production will follow in the coming months.