The livestock sub sector contributes 7.9-10% GDP to the Kenyan economy. Out of the Agricultural GDP, which is 25% of the national GDP, the poultry industry is estimated to contribute about 1.7 %. The industry has over the years, progressed to become one of the most important livestock enterprises particularly in rural households where over 70% of the country’s population live and derive their livelihood. Poultry are the most abundant livestock species, and domestic chicken (98%) are the most important, with other poultry species constituting 2% of the current total estimated population of 32 million birds. Livestock remains the main source of livelihood for communities living in the ASAL areas. In Kenya, more than 60% of the livestock are found in the ASAL. However, the productivity of livestock in these areas is low. A value chain analysis conducted indicated that the major constraints to livestock productivity in these areas include feed availability, animal diseases and limited animal breeds.


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