Cows for Sale in Kenya: Ayrshire, Friesians, Borans
- BeyondForest
- Nov 29, 2024
- 9 min read
Updated: Nov 5
By the end of this section you will have learnt
3.)Dairy Groups In Kenya on Facebook
4.)Cow delivery
5.)Signs of Labor in Cows
Dairy contributes 17% of agricultural GDP and 3.8% of Kenya’s national GDP
Image of Friesians In a Zero grazed System In Githunguri Bubi Dairies
Feed Cost Is the Biggest Problem in Kenya . Feed accounts for 60–70% of total dairy production cost.
Dairy farming in Kenya continues to grow as demand for fresh milk, yoghurt, and other dairy products rises across the country. This growth has increased the market for high-quality dairy cows for sale, especially among farmers investing in higher milk yields and improved herd genetics. The most popular dairy breeds include Holstein Friesian, Ayrshire, Jersey, Guernsey, and Fleckvieh, each offering unique advantages such as high milk production, strong fertility, and efficient feed conversion.
Production Systems in Kenya
Zero grazing (intensive) – highest yields -15 liters/day
Semi-zero grazing – average yields -8.4 liters/day
Open grazing – lowest yields- 7.2 liters/day
Image of a Pedigree Friesian For Sale by Bubi Dairies
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Kenyan farmers today prefer cows that produce between 15–40 liters per day, depending on feeding, management systems, and breed quality. Areas like Githunguri, Kiambu, Nyeri, Eldoret, Nandi, Nakuru, and Meru are well-known hubs where farmers can find reliable sellers and well-managed herds. Many farms now offer in-calf heifers, fresh cows, young heifers, and crossbreeds suitable for both zero-grazing and open grazing systems.
Milk Production in 2023 was 5.76 Billion Liters
Cow milk – 79%
Camel milk – 16%
Goat milk – 4%
Sheep milk – 1%
Ayrshire Cows
Ayrshire cows are a dairy cattle breed originally from the county of Ayr in Scotland. Renowned for their adaptability, resilience, and high milk production, Ayrshire cows are an excellent choice for dairy farmers in Kenya and other regions with diverse climates.
High-Performing Dairy Breeds Dominating Kenya include Holstein Friesian = 80% of Kenya’s dairy cows and Jersey, Ayrshire, Sahiwal crosses
Image of a FLECKVIEH 6.5+Months Incalf Pedigree Heifer for sale by Bubi Dairies
Ayrshire cows were developed in the 18th century in Ayrshire, Scotland. Originally known as Dunlop cattle, the breed evolved through selective breeding for milk production and hardiness. Ayrshires were introduced to Kenya during the colonial era and quickly adapted to the local climate, becoming a popular dairy breed.
Uganda was Kenya's Top supplier in 2023 with ($60.9 million)
Ayrshires are primarily white with reddish-brown spots, which vary in size and pattern. Size: Mature cows weigh between 450–600 kg. Bulls can weigh between 600–850 kg. Build: They have a medium frame, strong legs, and an efficient udder for milking. Horns: Ayrshires are naturally horned, but dehorning is common to ensure safety on farms. Ayrshire cows are known for their consistent milk production, with several benefits: Yield: On average, an Ayrshire cow produces 5,000 to 7,000 liters of milk per lactation under proper feeding and management. Milk Quality
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✅ Farm Visits & Tours
✅ Hands-On Dairy Training
✅ High-Quality Cows for Sale
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Image of an Ayrshire heifers on X by Farm Kenya
Their milk has a Butterfat content of 3.9%–4.5% a Protein content of 3.2%–3.5% which is excellent for processing into butter, cheese, and other dairy products. Known for their excellent milk production, these Cows for Sale are often sold at prices ranging from 45,000Ksh for young heifers to 90,000Ksh for mature cows producing 25–35 liters of milk per day
Kenya is the 2nd largest dairy industry in Africa by herd size.
The Friesian (Holstein-Friesian) is one of the most popular dairy cattle breeds in the world, known for its high milk production. Originating from the Friesland region of the Netherlands and northern Germany, Friesians are easily recognizable due to their distinctive black-and-white or, less commonly, red-and-white markings. They are large-bodied cattle, with cows weighing between 600–700 kg and bulls reaching up to 1,000 kg.
Image of a Fresian cow for sale by Cowgir on X
Friesians are valued primarily for their milk yield, producing an average of 25–30 liters per day, with some high-performing cows exceeding 10,000 liters per lactation cycle. Their milk has a moderate butterfat content (3.6–4%) and protein (3.2%), making it suitable for liquid milk production and dairy processing.
Image of a Fresian cow for sale by Cowgir on X
These cattle are well-adapted to intensive dairy farming systems but require high-quality feed, good management, and regular veterinary care to maintain their productivity.
They are also known for their fertility, calving ease, and strong maternal instincts. However, Friesians have a relatively shorter lifespan compared to some other breeds due to their high metabolic demands. Despite this, their efficiency in converting feed into milk makes them the preferred choice for large-scale dairy farmers globally.
Boran cattle are a hardy, indigenous breed originating from East Africa, primarily Kenya, Ethiopia, and Somalia. They are Bos indicus (zebu) cattle, well-adapted to harsh climates, drought conditions, and disease resistance. Known for their compact, muscular bodies, Boran cattle have a short coat, usually white, red, or fawn, with a distinct hump and loose skin for heat tolerance.
They are prized for their high fertility, excellent mothering ability, and efficient feed conversion, making them ideal for beef production. Boran bulls can weigh 500–850 kg, while cows range from 400–550 kg. Their meat is well-marbled, tender, and in high demand.
The Fleckvieh breed, originating from Germany and Austria, is a dual-purpose breed renowned for its high milk and beef production. In-calf Fleckvieh heifers are becoming increasingly popular in Kenya due to their adaptability, excellent productivity, and suitability for diverse farming systems.
Milk Production: Fleckvieh cows can produce between 5,000 to 8,000 liters of milk per lactation, depending on feeding and management. The milk has a high butterfat content (3.8%–4.2%) and protein, making it suitable for both direct consumption and processing. The breed has excellent musculature, making it valuable for meat production, with high dressing percentages.
Super Giant Pedigree Fleckvieh Cattle
👉 Ready to Buy a Dairy Cow or Learn From Experts? Visit Githunguri’s Top Dairy Farm Today!
Experience real dairy excellence, choose high-quality cows, and get hands-on training directly from a farm with over 100 thriving animals. Whether you’re a new farmer or looking to scale up, this visit will give you practical knowledge, expert guidance, and access to healthy cows for sale.
✅ Farm Visits & Tours
✅ Hands-On Dairy Training
✅ High-Quality Cows for Sale
✅ Expert Advice From Experienced Farmers
📞 Book your visit now and start your dairy journey the right way!
Image of a Super giant pedigree Friesian fleckvieh by Muriithi on Facebbook
The Super Giant Pedigree Fleckvieh represents the pinnacle of Fleckvieh cattle genetics, renowned for superior performance in milk and beef production. These pedigree animals are highly sought after by dairy and beef farmers worldwide, including in Kenya, due to their remarkable productivity, adaptability, and genetic traits. The term “Super Giant Pedigree” refers to Fleckvieh cattle with carefully selected and proven genetics for high performance in milk yield, growth rate, and disease resistance.
Image of a GGI - SPERMEX fleckvieh by K Kago on Facebook
👉 Ready to Buy a Dairy Cow or Learn From Experts? Visit Githunguri’s Top Dairy Farm Today!
Experience real dairy excellence, choose high-quality cows, and get hands-on training directly from a farm with over 100 thriving animals. Whether you’re a new farmer or looking to scale up, this visit will give you practical knowledge, expert guidance, and access to healthy cows for sale.
✅ Farm Visits & Tours
✅ Hands-On Dairy Training
✅ High-Quality Cows for Sale
✅ Expert Advice From Experienced Farmers
📞 Book your visit now and start your dairy journey the right way!
These animals are typically bred through advanced techniques such as artificial insemination (AI) or embryo transfer (ET) using high-quality sires and dams. Super Giant Fleckvieh cows can produce up to 10,000 liters of milk per lactation under optimal conditions. Their milk contains a butterfat content of 4%–4.2% and protein content of 3.5%–4%, ideal for dairy processing industries. These cattle excel in beef production with excellent carcass quality and a high dressing percentage of 60%–65%. Pedigree Fleckvieh bulls and steers exhibit rapid weight gain, reaching market weight faster than many other breeds
Image of a Jersey Cow for sale by Bubi Dairies In Githunguri
Kenya Dairy Farmers Forum | 156,000 members |
Dairy Farming Kenya | 58,000 members |
North Rift Dairy Farm Breeders | 84,000 members |
Dairy Farmers Forum DFF | 104,000 members |
Sotik Dairy Farming Dealers | 17,000 members |
Baringo sahiwal breeding farm | 17,000 members |
Fleckvieh Farmers Kenya | 17,000 members |
South Rift Dairy Farmers | 59,000 members |
Cow delivery, or the process of parturition in cattle (commonly referred to as "calving"), is a critical stage in livestock management in Kenya. Proper care and management during this period are essential for the health of the cow and the calf. Calving is crucial for maintaining milk production in dairy cattle and increasing herd size for beef production. Successful calving ensures a continuous supply of replacement heifers, which is vital for sustaining livestock productivity. Calves are often sold or raised for beef, milk production, or breeding purposes, contributing to farmers' income.
Signs of Labor in Cows
Farmers must monitor pregnant cows closely, especially during the last trimester. Signs that indicate a cow is about to calve include Physical Changes such as Swelling and relaxation of the vulva ,development of an enlarged udder (bagging up) and possible milk leakage. The cow’s pelvic ligaments relax, causing the tail head to appear more prominent. Behavioral Changes such as restlessness and frequent lying down and standing up. Reduced appetite and increased vocalizations. Separation from the herd as the cow seeks a quiet place to deliver . Finally Discharge of a clear or slightly cloudy mucus discharge from the vulva.
Stage One: Preparation
This stage lasts 2–6 hours.The cow shows restlessness, the water bag appears, and uterine contractions begin.
Stage Two: Delivery of the Calf
Lasts 30 minutes to 2 hours for cows and is often faster in subsequent calvings.The cow pushes the calf through the birth canal. Farmers should intervene if delivery exceeds 2 hours to prevent complications.
Stage Three: Expulsion of the Placenta
Occurs within 2–12 hours after delivery. Retention of the placenta beyond 24 hours may require veterinary assistance.
FAQ ABOUT Cows and Dairy Farming In Kenya
What Are In-Calf Heifers?
An in-calf heifer is a young female cow that has not yet calved but is already pregnant. Typically, heifers are bred for the first time between 15 and 24 months of age, depending on the breed and management system. Once a heifer successfully conceives, she is referred to as an in-calf heifer until she gives birth to her first calf, after which she becomes a cow
What is a pedigree heifer
A pedigree heifer is a young female cow that comes from a registered lineage with documented ancestry. These heifers are bred from high-quality parents with superior genetic traits, such as high milk yield, strong disease resistance, and good fertility. The pedigree status means their ancestry has been officially recorded by a breed association or cattle registry, ensuring their bloodline meets specific breed standards.
Dystocia (Difficult Birth)
Common causes include an oversized calf, improper calf position, or a narrow birth canal. Requires prompt veterinary intervention.
Retained Placenta
If the placenta is not expelled naturally, it can lead to infections and reduced fertility. Proper nutrition and calcium supplementation during pregnancy reduce this risk.
Inadequate Facilities
Many smallholder farmers lack proper calving pens or clean environments, leading to high risks of infection.
Limited Veterinary Services:
Access to skilled veterinarians is limited in some rural areas, delaying treatment during emergencies.
FAQ Dairy Farming & Cows for Sale in Kenya
Which dairy cow breeds give the highest milk in Kenya?
Holstein Friesians are the top producers, giving between 25–40 liters per day under good feeding. Jerseys, Ayrshires, and Fleckvieh also perform well and are preferred for their efficiency, fertility, and strong adaptability.
How much does a good dairy cow cost in Kenya?
Prices vary by age, breed, and milk production. In-calf heifers 120,000Ksh–180,000Ksh Fresh cows (calved): 150,000Ksh–250,000 while Young heifers cost around 70,000Ksh–120,000Ksh
What should I check before buying a dairy cow?
Look for confirmed pregnancy, teat health, milk records, body condition score (BCS), feeding history, deworming schedule, vaccination records, and temperament. Visiting the farm personally gives you confidence in the animal’s health and management.
Which regions in Kenya are best for buying dairy cows?
Top dairy hubs include Githunguri, Kiambu, Nyeri, Eldoret, Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Meru, and Kericho. These regions have strong dairy cultures, reliable breeders, and high-quality stock.
How many litres should a good dairy cow produce daily?
A healthy, well-fed Friesian or Ayrshire should produce 15–30 litres under semi-zero grazing and 25–40 litres under intensive zero-grazing with proper nutrition.
Is dairy farming profitable in Kenya?
Yes. With good breed selection, proper feeding, and good housing, farmers can generate solid monthly income. Profitability depends on milk yield, feed cost, management practices, and disease control.
What is the best feeding system for dairy cows in Kenya?
Zero-grazing gives the highest yields because you control the diet—Napier grass, maize silage, dairy meal, and mineral supplements. Semi-zero grazing also works well for farmers with moderate land.
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