Beef prices in Kenya have doubled from about Sh400 per kg in 2020 to Sh750-Sh900 now, driven by early rains. Farmers are holding livestock to fatten them, reducing market supply. KMC Sales Manager Lydia Mandila says livestock prices are up 40% from last year.
The surge in beef prices has hit customers and sellers in markets and butcheries, with some shop owners reporting fewer buyers.
Lydia Mandila, Sales Manager at the Kenya Meat Commission (KMC), explained that the rainy season prompts farmers to retain livestock for fattening instead of selling. “When it rains, farmers hold onto their livestock to fatten them. This reduces supply in the market. At the same time, customer demand increases, pushing prices up,” Mandila said.
Livestock prices have doubled this year; they typically rise in December and fall from January to March, but early rains have kept them high. KMC has limited control over prices, as many slaughterhouses operate informally and independently.
Despite high market prices, KMC reports more customers. “We are not aiming for huge profits. Our prices are much lower, so customers come to us because they are affordable,” Mandila added.