Livestock Farmers in Kiambu County have been encouraged to purchase supplements rich in calcium and phosphorous for cows due to give birth, to ward off death.
Speaking in his office on Thursday, the officer in charge of the Livestock Department in the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Mr James Kariuki, said that some farmers have lost their cows while giving birth, leading to reduction of milk, as well as loss of livelihood for others.
Kariuki said that calcium is very important for cows due to give birth because it helps in nerve conduction, muscle contraction, blood clotting in case the animal gets hurt and activates the immune system.
He added that phosphorous is involved in energy utilisation and transfer, alongside acid-base and osmotic balance.
The officer said dairy cattle are very important because they are a source of livelihood for many people in the community.
“People put food on the table, as well as cater for their other needs using the money they get from milk sales. I have heard of many who have educated their children with the same money. Loss of a single cow not only affects the farmer, but other people as well,” said Kariuki.
Kariuki said rearing of cattle helps protect the local environment, and provides employment for veterinary officers, feeds suppliers among others, adding that milk is healthy, and provides a balanced diet.
Lucy Muthoni, a farmer, said it was important to give the cows the supplements as she had incurred losses after her cow died while giving birth.