Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua garnered significant attention at the Nairobi International Trade Fair by acquiring two champion bulls for a remarkable total of Ksh 1.6 million.
One of the bulls is a three-year-old Boran sourced from the Kenya Seed Company, with a weight of 690 kilograms.
The second bull, also a three-year-old Boran, weighs 580 kilograms and was purchased for Ksh 550,000.
Gachagua’s investment in these high-quality animals underscores the importance of breeding excellence in boosting agricultural productivity in Kenya.
This move not only reflects his personal interest in livestock farming but also demonstrates a broader commitment to enhancing meat production within the nation.
Boran bulls
Boran bulls are a prominent breed of Zebu cattle originating from the Borana plateau in Ethiopia.
Developed over 1,300 years, they are known for their hardiness and adaptability to harsh environments, including drought and low-quality forage.
These bulls typically weigh between 500 to 850 kg and stand 114 to 147 cm tall, and exhibit a large hump, short head, and loose skin, which aids in heat tolerance and insect resistance.
The breed’s color ranges from white to fawn, with males often displaying darker pigmentation.
Boran cows are excellent mothers, known for high weaning weights and protective instincts.
They reach puberty around 385 days and have minimal calving difficulties.
Their ability to thrive under challenging conditions makes them valuable for crossbreeding with other cattle breeds, enhancing traits like fertility and growth rates.
The Boran breed is favored for beef production due to its superior carcass quality, which includes good marbling and tenderness.
This breed’s resilience and efficiency make it a preferred choice among Kenyan ranchers, contributing significantly to the local beef industry.