A Kenyan livestock expert is betting big on South African genetics to transform his country’s agricultural landscape. Henry Carlos, the Eastern Africa Representative for Karoo Livestock Export, has completed an intensive Boerbok course in Oudtshoorn as part of his ambitious plan to import thousands of animals.
Carlos, an independent livestock enterprise development consultant, believes that South African breeds hold the key to boosting meat production in his home country. “I enjoyed every aspect of the course,” he says. “My objective is to breed full-blood Boer, Kalahari red, and Savannah goats, as well as Meatmaster and Dorper sheep in Eastern Africa.”
With a burgeoning demand for goat meat in the Arab world, Kenya is well-positioned to capitalize on this lucrative market. “Goat farming is a very lucrative business for small farmers in Africa,” Carlos explains. “At Masaku H&L, we work with the government, community, and financial institutions to empower local farmers.”
To ensure the highest quality livestock, Carlos plans to import approximately 10,000 animals by the end of 2025. But his ambitions extend beyond goats. “The demand for cattle meat in Kenya is growing also, and we look at the top genetics in Angus, Bonsmara, and Boran cattle,” he says.
The entrepreneur is also exploring advanced reproductive technologies to accelerate genetic improvement. “We are exploring semen harvesting, and storage, embryo harvesting, and storage, as well as AI technology,” he adds.
Carlos is optimistic about the future of his venture, thanks in part to support from the South African High Commission in Kenya. “We are in the process of planning a major event, coming October 2024, and we expect more South African breeders to participate,” he says. “We look forward to opening more opportunities for South African breeders and farms.”
As Carlos builds his livestock empire, the potential benefits for both South Africa and Kenya are clear. If successful, his venture could create jobs, boost economies, and improve food security in the region.
