Sessional Paper No. 02 of 2020 on the Veterinary Policy

Abstract

The Veterinary Policy provides a roadmap for the development of anima1 resources in Kenya through observation of sanitary measures. Anima1 resource categories in Kenya include livestock, wildlife, farmed wildlife, companion and aquatic anima1 species and bees. The animal resources listed above are very critical to rura1 livelihoods and the national economy considering that they directly and indirectly contribute over 22 per cent of the National Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This Policy addresses anima1 health production & welfare, food safety and trade among other concerns in livestock, wildlife, aquatic and companion anima1s. Animal health services are integral to the prevention, control and eradication of animal diseases that occasion huge economic losses and adversely impact livelihoods. The health of animals is among the leading priorities in animal productivity and at all stages of production must be guaranteed. Due to inadequate focus on anima1 health, enterprises involving food animals have low returns on investment resulting in high poverty levels in animal producing areas.