Kenya targets large-scale sheep exports to Algeria before Eid al-Adha

KENYA – Kenya is preparing to supply large numbers of live sheep to Algeria ahead of the upcoming Eid al-Adha festival as the two countries discuss expanding livestock trade and agricultural cooperation.

The plan emerged after discussions between Kenya’s Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary, Mutahi Kagwe, and Algerian official Farid Ouahid Dahmane on ways to facilitate livestock exports and broaden agricultural exchanges.

According to Kenya’s Ministry of Agriculture, Algeria is running a state-backed livestock import programme designed to secure enough animals to meet demand linked to Eid al-Adha celebrations.

Government officials indicated that the programme could require as many as one million sheep as the Muslim holiday approaches.

In a message shared on the social media platform X, Kagwe said discussions with Algerian authorities focused on expediting procedures to allow Kenyan livestock to access the North African market.

He added that the talks centred on practical steps needed to move shipments quickly while also exploring other areas of agricultural collaboration between the two governments.

Assessment of Kenya’s livestock capacity

The discussions follow a recent visit to Kenya by a technical team from Algeria that evaluated the country’s sheep production systems and overall supply capacity.

Officials involved in the process said the delegation reviewed farming practices, livestock numbers, and logistical arrangements to determine whether Kenya could supply animals in the quantities required.

The assessment also examined whether Kenyan producers could meet Algeria’s requirements consistently if exports were expanded in the coming years.

Authorities in Nairobi believe that if the first shipments proceed without major challenges, the trade could develop into a recurring export channel for livestock producers.

Government officials say the opportunity could create a large overseas market for sheep farmers and livestock traders across Kenya if Algeria continues importing animals annually.

Wider agricultural trade discussions

Alongside livestock exports, the talks also covered possible cooperation under the African Continental Free Trade Area framework.

Kenya signalled interest in sourcing fertiliser from Algeria to support domestic crop production.

This follows Algeria’s previous donation of 16,000 metric tonnes of urea fertiliser to Kenya in 2024.

The two sides also reviewed potential collaboration in animal health through vaccines produced by the Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute.

In addition, Kenyan officials raised the possibility of exporting other agricultural goods to Algeria, including dairy products, tea, avocados, macadamia nuts, and mango-based products.

Government representatives from both countries said the engagement reflects ongoing efforts to establish regular trade arrangements that connect agricultural producers with overseas buyers.

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