The vibrant sounds of bleating sheep, clucking chickens, and mooing cows filled the livestock section at this year’s Mombasa International Show. Adding to the spectacle at the Mkomani ASK Showground were the stunning peacocks.
As the event came to a close, families gathered to admire the animals on display. Among the highlights were a hen priced at Sh50,000 and a sheep at Sh45,000, which left visitors in awe.
“I am a breeder. I run a poultry farm with my son, where we have a variety of ornamental birds, including peacocks and different breeds of chickens such as Silky, Polish, and the latest breed in the country, the Orpington Chicken, which costs Sh50,000. I imported eggs from the UK to breed these birds. After hatching the eggs, we now have a pair that lays eggs which we incubate for more chicks,” explained Khadija Sheriff, founder of Kilifi-based Had’s Poultry Farm. Her chickens won multiple awards at the show.
Sheriff noted that ornamental birds are primarily kept as pets for decoration rather than for meat. “They are too expensive for meat. Nobody would buy chicken at Sh45,000 or Sh50,000 just for meat. They are mostly kept for decoration.
In my garden, they roam freely. As a breeder, I sell only the chicks, not the parent pairs. The market is good. I have multiple orders for ornamental chicks and have placed several eggs in the incubator,” she said, adding that her client base increased after the show.
Mwamburi Josphat from MJ Ornamental Farm in Taita Taveta County also noted the growing online market for these birds. “We receive many clients online. Prices for the birds range from Sh1,000 to Sh50,000 depending on the breed. We focus on breeds that our clients prefer,” Mwamburi explained, highlighting their main breeds of Polish and Silky chickens.
“We also have ornamental ducks such as Welsh Harlequin, Rouen duck, Khaki Campbells, and Indian Runner ducks among others,” he told visitors at the show, which was themed “Promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Economic Growth.”
Improved Breeds
Visitors were amazed by the diverse array of improved animal and bird breeds on display, with many eager buyers taking animals home for rearing. The highlight of the show was the champions, adorned with ribbons reading “Champion,” attracting families who posed for photos with these prized animals before heading to the dairy section. There, long queues formed as people came to witness the milking process and sample fresh milk.
Tasty Offerings
The Kenya Meat Commission (KMC) stand drew significant attention, thanks to the irresistible aroma of sizzling Nyama Choma emanating from the entrance. Visitors were welcomed by friendly Kenya Defense Force personnel, who now manage the Commission. Many were surprised by the complex operations behind KMC.
Colonel Anthony Naibei, the Kibarani Branch Manager, explained the Commission’s commitment to sustainability:
“Nothing goes to waste here. After slaughter, we collect solid waste and convert it into manure for sale. Bones are processed into Meat and Bone Meal (MBM) for animal feed and aquaculture rations. We also produce blood meal for chickens, dogs, and more. Our aim is to support climate-smart agriculture, and waste management is crucial to that effort. We even use bio-digesters to ensure no waste harms the environment.”
Naibei emphasized that the Kibarani factory is a key partner for animal farmers across Lamu, Kilifi, Tana River, Taita Taveta, and Kwale counties, providing a reliable market for their livestock.
“I encourage the public not to hesitate in supplying us. You don’t need to be a large company or own a vast ranch—individual farmers are welcome too. As long as you have tax compliance, you can bring your cattle and goats, and we’re ready to do business. You will receive your payment promptly,” Naibei assured, highlighting KMC’s commitment to supporting food security in the country.
