The Kenyan Alpine Goat is a medium-sized dairy breed that is popular in Central and Western Kenya due to its high milk production and adaptability. It originated from the Alps region of Europe, including France, Switzerland, and Germany, and was introduced to Kenya from Germany in the early 1980s. The Dairy Goats Association of Kenya (DGAK) promoted the breed, which is now predominantly found in Nyeri, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Embu, Nakuru, Kiambu, and Vihiga counties.
Farmers rear Kenyan Alpine goats under intensive and semi-intensive production systems. The breed is hardy and thrives in a wide range of climatic conditions, particularly in high rainfall areas. Their coat is mainly brown with shades of grey, or black with a black topline. Hair is short on the body but longer on the chest, thighs, and mane. Bucks stand 80–90 cm at the withers, while does reach 70–76 cm. Most animals have horns, though some are polled, and ears are erect and of medium size. The skin pigment is black.
Kids weigh 2–3.5 kg at birth and reach a weaning weight of 15–18 kg at 3–4 months. By one year, they weigh 28–32 kg. Mature does weigh 50–60 kg, while bucks reach 70–76 kg. Kenyan Alpine goats produce 2.5–4.0 kg of milk per day, supporting both household consumption and commercial dairy production. Does reach first kidding at 18–24 months.
The Kenyan Alpine Goat combines high milk yield, adaptability, and hardiness, making it a reliable dairy breed for farmers in diverse climatic zones. Its productive traits provide a basis for breeding, management, and sustainable dairy goat programs in Kenya.