Livestock farmers and pastoralists have been urged to take early steps to protect their animals as Kenya prepares for weather conditions that could bring flooding, disease outbreaks and serious losses to the livestock sector.
The Kenya Veterinary Association (KVA) has warned that the expected return of El Niño could affect millions of people who rely on livestock for food and income if preparations are delayed.
KVA president Kelvin Osore said forecasts by the World Meteorological Organisation and other climate agencies show a high likelihood of El Niño conditions developing and remaining in place for the rest of 2026 and into the beginning of 2027.
"The anticipated weather conditions pose significant risks to Kenya's livestock sector, including increased incidence of vector-borne and climate-sensitive diseases, livestock injuries and mortalities, damage to livestock infrastructure, disruption of livestock value chains, and threats to the livelihoods of millions of pastoralists and livestock farmers," Osore said.
The association said the country has already seen the damage that severe El Niño weather can cause.
During the 2023-2024 El Niño period, heavy rains resulted in flooding across different parts of the country, forcing communities to move from their homes and damaging infrastructure.
Animals were also lost, while several water sources were contaminated by floodwater.
The flooding was associated with outbreaks of water-borne diseases and left households that depend on livestock facing lower incomes and food shortages.
Many of the affected families also took a long time to recover from the losses caused by the floods.
“These experiences remind us that preparedness is considerably less costly than emergency response after disasters have already occurred,” Osore emphasised.
KVA said it supports measures already being implemented by the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) to reduce the possible impact on animals and livestock owners.
Among the steps being taken are closer monitoring of livestock diseases, increased control of vectors and parasites and efforts to improve laboratory services.
Authorities are also positioning vaccines and emergency veterinary supplies in preparation for areas that could be affected.
Plans further include targeted vaccination against Rift Valley Fever and other priority diseases, preparation of feed and fodder, restoration of water points and increased public awareness on the risks associated with the expected weather.
However, KVA has called for these efforts to be moved faster, saying resources and interventions need to reach vulnerable areas before the rains cause major disruption.
The association wants emergency livestock vaccination campaigns carried out in advance, while water infrastructure in vulnerable areas should be protected.
It has also called for emergency destocking programmes to begin by September 2026, particularly in areas where pastoralists could face difficulties keeping their animals because of the expected weather conditions.
Mobile veterinary units should also be sent to areas considered to be at high risk, allowing livestock owners to access veterinary services even when movement becomes difficult.
KVA wants national and county governments to work more closely in preparing for the expected conditions and to ensure resources can be mobilised quickly when needed.
It has also called for vaccines, veterinary medicines, laboratory materials, feed and fodder to be stored in strategic locations before heavy rainfall begins.
The association and DVS have agreed to work together on public awareness, technical advocacy and efforts to raise resources for preparedness activities.
The two sides will also develop a costed preparedness and response proposal to guide their actions before and during the expected El Niño period.
Osore urged livestock owners to seek advice from veterinary professionals on vaccination and take measures to control vectors and parasites.
He also asked farmers to secure feed and water supplies and move animals to safe locations where necessary, especially in areas that are prone to flooding.
"The anticipated El Niño event presents a significant challenge but also an opportunity for Kenya to demonstrate the value of early preparedness, coordinated action and strong partnerships," Dr. Osore concluded.
"Through coordinated action, effective communication and timely implementation of preparedness measures, Kenya can substantially reduce the impact of the anticipated El Niño season on the livestock sector."
The department has also asked farmers to immediately report unusual animal diseases or deaths and adhere to guidance issued by veterinary authorities.