Value Chain Analysis of Delivery of Artificial Insemination Services in Kenya: A Case Study of the Western Kenya Region

Abstract

The aim of the study was to map out value chains for transmitting genetic material, estimate gross margins and value added by each artificial insemination (AI) service providers, and recommend ways of improving AI services. Regulators, agents, trainers in artificial insemination and dairy farmers were interviewed in nine counties, namely Kisii, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Nandi, Kakamega, Bungoma, Nyamira, Bomet and Trans Nzoiafor three weeks in the year 2017. Ninety AI inseminators, 32 regulators, 18 distributors, 6 trainers, 10 para-veterinary officers and 10 importers of genetic material were interviewed through key informant interviews. A total of 114 farmers were interviewed through a semi-structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics (percentages, means) were used for data analysis. Results show that the Kenya Animal Genetics Resource Centre (KAGRC) handled 70% of the genetic material. Bull service had about 16% of the market share. The main challenge for farmers was repeat cases of insemination thus questioning the quality of artificial insemination. The AI trainers with better technical skills such as KAGR Conly trained 1% of the farmers interviewed. Gross margins for inseminators were Kenya shilling (KES) 163/dose for local semen and KES 660 for imported semen, thus making it difficult to earn a decent living from distribution of local semen. Transport cost was 37% of the total cost. To increase gross margins, inseminators should give veterinary services andencourage farmers to use AI services. County governments should reduce cost of transport. Traceability of inseminators and of semen distribution should be done to reduce exploitation of farmers.