The Galla goat, also known as the Borana or Somali goat, is a large, hardy breed native to Northern Kenya, renowned for its adaptability to arid conditions.
It matures quickly, reaching market weight (up to 70 kg for males) in about six months, making it preferable for farmers seeking quick returns.
Galla goats are resistant to diseases and can thrive on diverse vegetation, which enhances their survival during droughts.
They also produce significant milk yields, averaging two liters daily, contributing to both meat and dairy production in pastoral communities.
With that said, keeping Galla goats can be a manageable and rewarding endeavor, especially with the right advice.
Success story
Furaha Wanjiru, the founder of Binuru Goat Rearing Farm in Zowerani in Kilifi County keeps Galla goats.
The entrepreneur manages a herd of more than 450 mature Galla goats, with individual weights ranging from 45 kg to 70 kg.
Wanjiru established her farm following visits to farms in Tororo, Uganda, as well as Gichea Farm in Taita Taveta.
“I bench-marked and to avoid the high cost of pen construction, I opted for simple structures that use available materials,” she explained.
In 2010, Wanjiru acquired her initial group of 100 goats from Garissa for Ksh 200,000.
Unfortunately, by 2018, she had suffered the loss of 93 goats due to pneumonia and deceitful herders who colluded to sell some of her livestock.
Despite residing in Nairobi, she makes periodic visits to her farm to ensure the well-being of her animals.
“Due to pneumonia, I lost 20 goats and had to call experienced farmers to help solve the problem. I realised that animals from Garissa were prone to diseases and I changed the source of purchase,” Wanjiru said.
In 2010, Wanjiru acquired her initial group of 100 goats from Garissa for Ksh 200,000.
Unfortunately, by 2018, she had suffered the loss of 93 goats due to pneumonia and deceitful herders who colluded to sell some of her livestock.
Despite residing in Nairobi, she makes periodic visits to her farm to ensure the well-being of her animals.
“I am into the big-bodied goats farming because they are hardy and can survive in arid and semi-arid areas and are profitable,” she said.
Galla Goat Farming in Kenya: A Complete Guide to Starting and Running a Profitable Galla Goat Farm