Merino Sheep Genetics Continue to Sustain Value
The most expensive ram, 4215 LW, bred by Koos de Wet of The Lands, Graaff-Reinet, achieved R21 000. A pregnant ewe from De Wet was the most expensive female animal at the South African Mutton Merino Breeders’ Society’s national auction in Bloemfontein in 2025, selling for R8 000.
Merino Farming in Kenya
Merino sheep in Kenya are concentrated in the cool central highlands and parts of the Rift Valley, with an estimated total population numbering in the tens of thousands within structured smallholder and institutional flocks.
Merino sheep farming in kenya an ignored profitable venture
Where to Find Merino Breeders and Stock
Naivasha Sheep and Goat Station (Ol'Magogo): A primary government/KALRO research and breeding station holding official performance data and foundational Merino and dual-purpose stock.
Merino sheep kids
Local Private Farms: Individual commercial and breeding farms across Nyandarua (such as Kinangop areas), Laikipia, and parts of Nakuru County maintain private Merino lines, though many local farmers crossbreed or shift between Merino, Dorper, and Hampshire Down.
According to mutton exporters in Kenya, Merino mutton fetches the highest price followed by Dorper, Somali blackheaded and indigenous sheep breeds,in that order.
