Dr. Ruth Waineina
Milk production in arid and semi-arid environments is primarily derived from indigenous goats typically raised for
meat under large production systems. In cooler regions, milk is produced from exotic dairy goat breeds and crossbred
genotypes that are predominantly kept in smallholder intensive and semi-intensive systems. Alpine, Saanen, Toggenburg and their crosses with indigenous are the major dairy goat breeds kept. By adopting the appropriate production system and targeting the right ecological zones, the dairy goat breeds can significantly contribute to dairy production in Kenya.
Saanen
Saanen dairy goat is a popular breed known for their high milk production, friendly temperament, and adaptability. The breed can be kept in intensive, semi-intensive and extensive production systems. The various ecological zones in Kenya are crucial when selecting areas for raising Saanen goats, as the breed thrives in moderate temperatures with access to adequate nutrition. The breed does well in highlands zones (above 1,800 meters), medium altitude zones (1,500 – 1,800 meters) and low zones (below 1,500 meters). However, the later zones’ temperatures tend to be hotter (over 30°C), which can be stressful for Saanen goats unless managed well (e.g., providing shade and plenty of water). However, the breed can still thrive with proper care and attention. Characteristics Colour: White to pale cream with pink skin pigmentation with its face straight, ears upright and alert (pricked), short fine hair and a long body.
Average body weight: 75-80 kg for males and 50-65 kg for females.
Milk yield: This breed has the potential to produce an average of 3-5 litres/day of milk depending on the management.
Alpine (German/French)
Alpine dairy goats (German/French) are hardy, adaptable, and excellent milk producers, often thriving in diverse climates.
The breed can be kept in intensive, semi-intensive and extensive production systems. It is suitable for urban or peri-urban areas where land for grazing is limited. Ideal for small-to medium-scale farmers with access to pasture and the ability to provide additional feed. The breed can be kept in Highlands (cool and wet zones), Upper midlands (Sub-humid Zones) and Semi–Arid regions with proper management. Their adaptability and high milk yield make them an excellent choice for farmers seeking to optimize their dairy farming operations. Characterictics Colour: Brown and black but considerable variations occur, with a black backline.
Average body weight: The adult male weighs 65 kg and female 60 kg.
Milk yield: The breed has the potential of producing 2-4 litres/day of milk depending on management.
Toggenburg
Toggenburg dairy goats are known for their excellent milk production and distinctive appearance. The breed can be kept in intensive and semi-intensive production systems. It does well in highlands (cool and wet zones), Upper midlands (Sub-humid zones), and semi-arid regions with irrigation support. Characteristics Colour: has a solid colour varying from light fawn to dark chocolate. With white ears two white stripes down the face
and mainly white legs. The hair is short or medium in length, soft, fine and lays flat.
Average body weight: 75-80 kg for males and 50-65 kg for females.
Milk yield: This breed has the potential to produce an average of 3-5 litres/day of milk depending on the management.
“British Alpine goats perform best in highland and medium-altitude zones of Kenya, where temperatures are moderate and there is access to fertile soils and reliable rainfall.”
British Alpine
The British Alpine goat is a hardy, known for its high milk production and ability to adapt to various climates. However, its performance in Kenya is influenced by the ecological zones and the production system implemented. The intensive (zero-grazing) and semi-intensive are the most suitable production systems to keep the British Alpine for ensuring high
milk production, especially in cooler regions. The extensive grazing system can be used in larger, lowland areas but requires careful management of heat and pasture quality. British Alpine goats perform best in highland and medium-altitude zones of Kenya, where temperatures are moderate and there is access to fertile soils and reliable rainfall. Characteristics Colour: Black and generally short, fine and glossy. They have white or cream markings on various body parts, e.g., the legs and face. The ears are erect and point slightly forward.
Average body weight: The adult male weighs 65 kg, female 60 kg.
Milk yield: The breed has the potential average milk yield of 4.5 litres/day depending on management.