More than 50 live cattle have been transported from Nairobi to Lagos in Kenya Airways Cargo’s first cattle charter between Kenya and Nigeria, the airline announced on October 27.
The shipment departed from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and arrived at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in a dedicated cargo operation.
The animals were transported through the airline’s KQ Live service, which provides specialised handling and environmental controls for live animal shipments. Temperature regulation and ventilation measures supported animal welfare during transit, according to the airline.
“This successful maiden operation to Lagos demonstrates our ability to respond to complex and specialised cargo requirements across the continent,” said Fitsum Abadi, Cargo Director at Kenya Airways.
“Live animal shipments require meticulous planning, specialised handling and close coordination throughout the journey. This milestone reinforces our commitment to supporting intra-African trade through flexible and reliable cargo solutions.”
The charter is part of a broader strategy to expand the airline’s cargo business beyond general freight into specialised segments, Kenya Airways said. These include pharmaceuticals, perishables, dangerous goods, live animals and e-commerce shipments.
The airline said it intends to diversify cargo revenue and improve yields through services requiring tailored handling and operational coordination.
