Transforming Goat Pastoralism in Kenya: Off-taker Innovations in Kajiado and Their Implications for Sustainable Agriculture in Africa

Pastoralism remains fundamental to Kenya’s economy and culture but faces threats from climate change, market volatility, and inadequate infrastructure. This study examines off-taker-led market innovations in Kajiado County transforming goat trade through fair pricing, quality control, and sustainable resource management. These off-takers stabilise pastoral livelihoods through vaccination programs, structured trade agreements, value chain financing, and climate-adaptive strategies. The off-taker models capitalise on the African Continental Free Trade Area and boost export chances, while public-private partnerships, digital management tools and sustainable grazing techniques help animals become more resistant to climate change. Findings highlight the need for investment in rural infrastructure, standardised livestock grading, disease surveillance, and inclusive financial solutions. Policymakers must align national trade policies with international standards, promote digital traceability, and incentivise investment in logistics and processing. Kenya’s evolving goat pastoral system is an example that African countries can follow for sustainable livestock development.