Dorper sheep, a breed originally from South Africa, is gaining popularity among farmers in Kenya due to its economic value and market potential.
The Dorper breed is known for its fast growth, hardiness, quick reproduction, and delicious lean meat.
Dorper sheep are classified into different grades based on their attributes, with Grade 1 being the most superior.
Spearheading this trend is David Kiplagat, the proprietor of DK Dorper Breeding Farm and a Member of Parliament for Soy.
Kiplagat embarked on his Dorper farming journey with a deep understanding of the strides made by South African breeders.
Recognizing the potential for improved sheep production in Kenya, he imported a high-quality ram from South Africa four years ago at a cost of Ksh140,000.
Gradually, his farm has progressed from Grade 4 Dorper sheep to Grades 3, 2, and the ultimate target of Grade 1 by 2026.
“We have gradually improved breeds and our target is to achieve only grade one by 2026. That will be a great milestone for us,” Kiplagat said in an interview with the Standard.
Grade 1 Dorper sheep boast exceptional attributes in reproduction, weight gain, and meat quality, commanding premium prices of up to Ksh5 million.
Before initiating the Dorper project, David Kiplagat, a Member of Parliament representing the Soy constituency, extensively studied Dorper breeding in South Africa and the significant advancements made in the field.
“I started my Dorper farm with intention of improving sheep production in the country. I noted with concern that most breeds that local farmers had, were those weighing between 10 and 20 kilograms and would fetch between Ksh6,000 and ksh15,000 yet a South African Dorper can fetch upto Ksh200,000,” said Kiplagat.
Farm Management and Successes
At DK Dorper Breeding Farm, meticulous management practices ensure the well-being and productivity of the sheep.
The animals are housed in well-designed structures, with separate paddocks established based on age, sex, feeding needs, and stage of development.
By providing appropriate care and attention, Kiplagat’s farm has produced high-grade rams that fetch substantial prices, ranging from Ksh50,000 to Ksh200,000
“We use ewes for incubation and curl the flock when the number of rams increase. A ram aged four to six months sells at between Ksh50,000 to Ksh60,000, the year-old sells at Ksh100,000 while the fully developed at two and a half years retails at between Ksh170,000 to Ksh200,000,” Kiplagat explains.
To maintain high standards, Kiplagat has employed a qualified veterinary manager who oversees the health and nutrition of the sheep.
Regular vaccination and deworming programs are implemented, along with preventive measures such as acaricide spraying to protect against tick infestations.
Housing units are kept warm to safeguard the younger flocks from pneumonia.
Future Prospects and Advice for Breeders
Kiplagat envisions a future where Kenya can match the quality grades achieved in South Africa.
He firmly believes that with upgrading and continuous improvement, local breeders can produce Dorper sheep of exceptional quality, thereby commanding higher prices in the market.
For aspiring breeders, Kiplagat offers valuable advice. Starting small is key, as it allows for a manageable learning curve and minimizes risks.
“You don’t have to have a lot of land to keep sheep. We have kept 400 sheep on a 0.2 acre farm. To make it, don’t look for quick returns because you might get disappointed. Be patient and consistent and the rewards will come… All is possible with determination and commitment. In only four years, we have managed to upgrade from grade 4 to 1,” says Kiplagat.
Looking ahead, Kiplagat aims to introduce Artificial Insemination (AI) for sheep in Kenya, similar to the practices employed in cattle breeding. This innovation would enable farmers to access superior sheep genetics at a fraction of the cost of importing rams.
