Sahiwal Breed for Hoves, Horns, milk, Beef and Leather
The Sahiwal cattle breed is gaining popularity among pastoralists in Narok County, Kenya, due to its adaptability to climate change and its resilience in arid and semi-arid regions. The breed is known for its tolerance to harsh conditions, tick resistance, and high-quality milk and meat production.
Funded by the NRF Kenya, below are some of the key aspects in respect to the project
Sahiwal Breed Summary
Regions Found:
Coastal Kenya – especially in Kwale, Kilifi, and Taita Taveta.
Rift Valley – including Nakuru, Baringo, and Laikipia counties.
Also found in parts of Eastern Kenya like Machakos and Kitui.
Price
Sahiwal Cow: KES 70,000 to 200,000 depending on age, pedigree, and milk production.
Bulls: KES 100,000 to 250,000+ for high-quality breeding bulls.
Breeds
Boran – Primarily a beef breed, resilient and common in arid regions
- Friesian (Holstein-Friesian) – High milk yield but less tolerant to heat and disease.
- Jersey – Moderate milk yield, better feed efficiency.
Beef Sample from the sahiwal breed
Benefits
Beef
- Good-quality beef with tender texture.
- Often used in dual-purpose farming in Kenya (milk + beef).
- Moderate carcass yield (~50–55% dressing percentage).
Milk
- Raw milk sales, yogurt, ghee, butter, and cheese production.
- Popular in Kenya for both household and commercial dairy farming.
- High butterfat content: ~4.5–5.0%
Leather
- Thick, strong hide suitable for tanning.
- Used in making shoes, belts, bags, and industrial leather goods.
Bone, Hoves and Horn Industry
- Crushed into bone meal used in animal feed and fertilizer (rich in phosphorus and calcium).
- Processed into gelatin, glue, or used in crafts and ornaments.
- Used for buttons, combs, knife handles, and decorative items.
