Ruto Reveals Plans to Establish Livestock Investment Companies in 21 ASAL Counties

Kenya, 1 June 2026 - President William Ruto has revealed plans to establish a County Livestock Investment Company in all 21 ASAL counties, in a broader effort to unlock the untapped economic potential of Northern Kenya through pastoralism.

Speaking during the 63rd Madaraka Celebration in Wajir County, the Head of State said that the move is part of the government’s KSh 5 billion investment plan to boost the pastoral economy in the region.

Ruto said that the new company shall enable pastoralists to form and own livestock companies, which will give them greater control over markets, financing, insurance, and value addition opportunities.

The initiative is expected to target more than 2 million household members during its first phase, and the Agriculture Cabinet Secretary, Mutahi Kagwe, has been directed by the president to spearhead the registration of the companies across all 21 ASAL counties.

Ruto, who labelled Northern Kenya as the future gateway of Africa's livestock trade to the Middle East and other international markets, noted that the region has, over the decades, suffered from inadequate investment in animal health, market access, infrastructure, and financing.

The President said the government has intensified efforts by launching a livestock restocking programme that has so far distributed more than 52,000 sheep, goats, and cattle to over 10,000 households in 16 ASAL counties, to ensure that the region is not left behind.

The President further revealed that more than 10 million animals have been vaccinated under government-supported campaigns, while local vaccine production has been expanded to over 123 million doses.