Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Kagwe has issued a strong warning over the misuse of veterinary drugs, cautioning that the practice could jeopardize Kenya’s position in the highly competitive global meat market. Speaking amid growing concerns in the livestock sector, Kagwe emphasized that improper administration of animal medicines, particularly the failure to observe recommended withdrawal periods, poses serious risks to both public health and international trade standards. He noted that meat products containing drug residues could easily be rejected in export markets, dealing a significant blow to the country’s economy.
Kenya has been working to expand its footprint in global meat exports, with key markets demanding strict compliance with food safety and quality regulations. According to the CS, maintaining these standards is not optional but a necessity if the country is to remain competitive and safeguard its reputation abroad.
Kagwe called on farmers, veterinarians, and all stakeholders in the livestock value chain to adhere strictly to established guidelines when using veterinary drugs. He stressed the importance of responsible animal husbandry practices, including proper dosing, record-keeping, and observing withdrawal timelines before animals are slaughtered for consumption.
The CS further warned that failure to comply could lead to far-reaching consequences, including export bans and loss of investor confidence in Kenya’s agricultural sector. He reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening monitoring and enforcement measures to ensure compliance across the board.
Industry experts have echoed the warning, noting that global markets are increasingly vigilant about food safety standards. They argue that even a few cases of contaminated meat exports could tarnish Kenya’s reputation and limit access to lucrative international markets.
As Kenya continues to position itself as a key player in the livestock industry, stakeholders are being urged to prioritize quality assurance and regulatory compliance. The message from the government is clear: safeguarding standards today is essential for securing market opportunities tomorrow.
