NAIROBI, Kenya, Dec 17 – The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development has issued an international tender for the lease, management, and development of the Bachuma Livestock Quarantine Station.
The Ministry says the move is part of the government’s efforts to enhance the livestock sub-sector and boost Kenya’s position in the global meat and livestock markets.
According to the state, the contract will span 30 years, with the operator also expected to undertake the expansion of the quarantine station in response to growing demand for livestock exports.
Likewise, the operator will collaborate closely with the Director of Veterinary Services to ensure that all health and sanitation protocols are adhered to, in line with global standards set by organizations such as the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH).
“Under this lease, the private operator will manage the station and all infrastructure, transport, and equipment necessary for handling the livestock during transportation, housing, feeding, and disease under the oversight of the Director of Veterinary Services (DVS),” read the tender notice in part.
“The operator will deploy all manpower necessary to operate the facility.”
The tender invites private companies to partner with the government to manage and expand the facility located in Taita Taveta County.
The Ministry stressed that quarantine stations are critical for ensuring that livestock meet international sanitary and veterinary standards before export.
The project is expected to play a significant role in improving the country’s livestock industry, providing better access to both local and international markets.
Originally envisioned as a Disease-Free Zone (DFZ) under the Kenya Vision 2030 blueprint, the Bachuma Quarantine Station was designed to enhance food security, reduce poverty, and boost the national economy through increased livestock exports.
Despite challenges in establishing disease-free zones, the government has refocused its efforts on developing quarantine stations as disease-free compartments for managing livestock disease risks.
The successful bidder will take control of the 15,000-acre station, which includes developed infrastructure such as livestock pens, laboratory buildings, staff housing, and emergency slaughterhouses.
The operator will be responsible for completing any outstanding construction, maintaining the facility, and overseeing livestock screening, transportation, and feeding in preparation for shipment.
Interested firms have until January 7, 2025, to submit their bids.
The government will evaluate applicants based on their technical expertise, financial capacity, and ability to deliver on the objectives outlined in the tender.
