Water Buffalo
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The Kenyan government has officially classified the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) as a food animal under the Meat Control Act, as detailed in Gazette Notice No. 977 issued on January 31, 2025.
The announcement, made by Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Mutahi Kagwe, sets the stage for the introduction of these South Asian bovines into Kenya's agricultural sector, despite their current absence from the nation. Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Allan Azegele, notes that the initiative is the culmination of extensive preparation and international collaboration. Since 2018, Kenya and Brazil have engaged in developing an import/export protocol, a partnership strengthened during the Uberaba International Livestock Show in Brazil.
This initiative is anticipated to bolster Kenya's meat and dairy industries, as water buffalo meat is recognized for being healthier, leaner, and lower in fat and cholesterol compared to traditional meats like beef, mutton, and goat. Furthermore, the milk from water buffalos has higher fat and protein content, making it particularly suitable for dairy products such as cheese, yoghurt, and butter. To facilitate a controlled introduction, the government has instituted a two-year pilot program, permitting only the Kenya Animal Genetics Resource Centre (KAGRC) and select farmers to rear water buffalos.
This period aims to establish product standards and evaluate ecological impacts systematically. Given Kenya's shifting meat consumption trends, alongside the challenges posed by climate change and limited grazing land, the addition of water buffalos is viewed as a promising alternative. Their ability to convert rough fodder into high-quality protein aligns with the rising demand for healthier meat options among consumers. Despite the potential advantages, the introduction of water buffalos brings forth environmental considerations.
Dr. Azegele acknowledges concerns regarding these animals' substantial water requirements and their potential competition with indigenous species for resources. However, he assures that the ecological impacts would be closely monitored throughout the pilot period, with current assessments suggesting minimal disruption. The decision to incorporate water buffalos follows thorough benchmark studies and technical team visits to established water buffalo industries in Brazil and India from 2018 to 2024.
These investigations have informed the implementation strategy, including necessary modifications to existing infrastructure. Processing of water buffalos will occur in current cattle facilities that will require only minor adjustments to accommodate their larger size. Stringent labelling and identification protocols will ensure product traceability and consumer awareness. Regarding veterinary care, Dr Azegele expresses confidence in local veterinarians' capabilities to manage water buffalos, citing their similarities to traditional cattle.
Veterinarians will receive additional practical training during the pilot phase to tackle any emerging challenges. Public engagement was a vital element in this initiative, with stakeholder consultations conducted at the Naivasha Dairy Training Institute in March 2024. Throughout the two-year pilot, the government plans to make minor amendments to existing Animal Health and Disease Control regulations and meat safety standards. Kenya's history of introducing new food animals includes the legalization of donkey slaughter in 2012, which facilitated the establishment of four specialized slaughterhouses by 2016.
However, the donkey meat sector encountered significant obstacles and faced a government ban in 2020 due to concerns over dwindling donkey populations. Additionally, Kenya's approach to game meat consumption has shifted significantly following a 2004 ban aimed at combating illegal bushmeat trade and protecting wildlife. Legally sourced game meat is now derived from licensed game farms and ranches, under strict regulatory conditions.