Why nyama choma lovers stare at costly Christmas this year

This Christmas, Kenyans will have to dig deeper into their pockets to enjoy delicacies such as nyama choma, boiled meat, and soup, as the soaring cost of livestock has sent meat prices skyrocketing. Livestock markets in regions like Kajiado County are experiencing unprecedented price hikes, driven by high demand and a significant shortage in supply.

The livestock shortage follows a devastating drought that gripped Kenya between 2020 and 2022, which decimated animal populations across the country.

Many farmers are now hesitant to sell their remaining cattle, sheep, and goats as they focus on restocking their herds to recover from the losses suffered during the prolonged dry spells. Joel Kiseentu, a farmer from Isinya, explained the situation: “We are struggling to restock our herds, and that is why nobody is willing to sell the few animals they have.”

This reluctance to sell has created a supply crunch, forcing livestock prices to soar. A 200-kilo cow, for example, is currently selling for Sh100,000, translating to a wholesale price of Sh500 per kilogramme of beef—up from Sh380 per kilogram just a few months ago.

Meanwhile, the price of goat meat has climbed even higher, now retailing at Sh1,000 per kilogramme live weight. These figures represent a significant increase, leaving both meat sellers and consumers grappling with the rising costs.

According to livestock brokers, the scarcity of animals is evident across markets. Amos Keshoko, a cattle broker at the Kiserian market, noted that much of the livestock currently on sale is being sourced from as far as the Ukambani region, Taita Taveta, and neighbouring Tanzania. However, even these external supplies are insufficient to meet the growing demand. “The supply is relatively low,” Keshoko admitted, highlighting the strain on the market.

Goats, in particular, are becoming increasingly sought after, with customers rushing to purchase them early in anticipation of further price increases as Christmas approaches.

Purchasing goats early

“We are seeing customers taking caution of prices and purchasing goats early. They fear the prices might increase more as Christmas nears,” said Paul Tuleto, a farmer from Korompoi.

This trend has led to a surge in live goat sales, as people try to secure their holiday meat supplies ahead of the festive season.

The situation has also impacted meat dealers and entertainment venues, who are scrambling to secure livestock for slaughter days well in advance.

Many meat suppliers are making advance purchases to avoid disruptions in their supply chain, particularly with the high demand expected during Christmas celebrations.

For these dealers, failing to stock up now could mean running out of meat at the peak of the holiday season, a scenario they cannot afford. The ripple effects of these price hikes will undoubtedly be felt by Kenyan families looking to enjoy traditional Christmas meals.

Nyama choma, a staple at most celebrations, may become a luxury item for many households. Boiled meat and soup, often prepared for large gatherings, are also likely to see scaled-down portions as families adjust to the inflated prices.

For those who can afford it, Christmas may still feature the familiar, hearty meals shared with loved ones. But for many, the high cost of beef and goat meat could lead to alternative options or smaller celebrations altogether.

Even with the steep prices, farmers and livestock traders remain cautious about the future. While they acknowledge the profits being made, their focus remains on rebuilding their herds to ensure long-term sustainability.

The traders say that as the holiday season draws near, the cost of meat is likely to rise further, driven by the interplay of high demand, limited supply, and cautious restocking efforts by farmers.

In a year where economic pressures have weighed heavily on many households, the sharp increase in livestock prices serves as yet another hurdle for Kenyans hoping to enjoy Christmas.