In the realm of animal health and welfare, the Kenya Veterinary Board (KVB) stands tall as a beacon of hope setting standards of excellence in compliance with the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) internationally acclaimed as best practices
Established under the Veterinary Surgeons and Veterinary Paraprofessionals (VSVP) Act of 2011, the KVB is the symbol of competence, reassuring the citizens of Kenya that their beloved animals receive the highest quality care.
At the heart of the KVB’s mission lies an unwavering commitment to vetting and accrediting veterinary professionals who are dedicated to delivering exceptional services.
Competent veterinary surgeons, animal health technologists and technicians, play a pivotal role in safeguarding animal health, welfare, and food safety—a responsibility they wholeheartedly embrace.
Dr. Mary Agutu, the visionary CEO of KVB, echoes Vincent Gogh, “Your profession is not what brings home your weekly paycheck; your profession is what you’re put here on earth to do, with such passion and intensity that it becomes spiritual in calling.”
The core mandate of the KVB revolves around safeguarding animal health, care, and welfare, which in turn promotes human health and livelihoods over the communities dependent on livestock. By enforcing stringent standards, the Board fortifies public trust as well as facilitates seamless domestic and international commerce in animals and animal products.
Recognizing the pivotal role of training in animal health, KVB is keen on the quality assurance of education. The Board diligently oversees every aspect, from curriculum analysis to supervision of its implementation, ensuring that aspiring veterinary professionals receive the finest education possible.
Graduates are offered internship opportunities to harness knowledge and skills learnt and inculcate proper attitudes as they transition into the professional realm.
KVB encourages professional growth by prioritising continuous professional development that ensures practitioners remain at the forefront of veterinary advancements, including cutting-edge technologies and emerging disease trends.
Further, the Board inspects and licenses veterinary clinics, hospitals, ambulatory services, artificial insemination providers, and veterinary laboratories to guarantee uncompromising standards of veterinary service delivery.
The profound impact of the KVB’s efforts reverberates far beyond veterinary clinics and laboratories, as the Board actively champions zoonotic disease prevention, public health, and food and nutrition security, contributing to society’s overall well-being.
Additionally, by facilitating access to livestock and livestock products in regional and global markets, the KVB actively supports the growth of thriving livestock-based livelihoods, spurring economic prosperity and fostering wealth creation.
As the Kenya Veterinary Board paves the way for a brighter future, it remains steadfast in its commitment to creating awareness among citizens about the importance of seeking service from only competent veterinary practitioners.
Furthermore, the Board offers invaluable advisory services to both National and County Governments, ensuring optimal employment of veterinary practitioners and providing expert guidance on registration and licensure matters.
Managed by a Board of Directors chaired by Dr. Jafred Kitaa and comprising 16 other directors with representation from the National Treasury, parent Ministry, research institution KALRO, KWS, and non-professional stakeholders, the KVB’s leadership is marked by diversity and expertise.
KVB has indexed up to 10,720 students whereas the graduates registered for internship are 5,170 this year and the professionals registered are 13,000 countrywide.
The regulator proudly showcases three accredited veterinary hospitals – UON, NASCAH, and Andys – alongside 61 clinics throughout the country that offer quality veterinary services.
The Veterinarians’ code of ethics provides a guide to professionalism and ensures the maintenance of dignity and high calling. These rules are formulated with the interest of animals and their owners for the good of all and the best interest of all individuals.
The principles of veterinary practice are professional competence, honesty & integrity, independence & impartiality, client confidentiality & trust and professional accountability.