More than 50 cattle flown from Nairobi to Lagos as the airline expands its specialised cargo capabilities and targets higher-value freight markets
By a Correspondent
Nairobi, Kenya – Kenya Airways Cargo has completed its maiden shipment of live cattle from Kenya to Nigeria, transporting more than 50 animals from Nairobi to Lagos in a dedicated cargo charter operation that marks a milestone in the airline’s specialized freight offering.
The shipment departed from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi and arrived at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
The operation was handled under Kenya Airways Cargo’s specialised “KQ Live” product, which supports the transportation of live animals through appropriate handling procedures and environmental controls. These include temperature regulation and ventilation measures intended to support animal welfare during transit.
The successful operation expands KQ Cargo’s charter capabilities and demonstrates its capacity to handle specialised shipments requiring tailored logistics planning, operational coordination and adherence to applicable animal transport regulations.
“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 forms part of Kenya Airways’ broader strategy to grow its cargo business by expanding capacity and targeting specialised freight segments beyond conventional general cargo. These include pharmaceuticals, perishables, dangerous goods, live animals and e-commerce shipments, all of which require specific handling capabilities, regulatory compliance and operational reliability.
Through these specialised services, KQ Cargo aims to diversify its revenue streams, improve cargo yields and strengthen Nairobi’s position as a regional gateway for high-value freight. Additional widebody aircraft capacity and strategic partnerships are expected to support the airline’s broader cargo expansion ambitions.
For KQ Cargo, the development of specialised services aims to differentiate its offering in an increasingly competitive freight market, where customers place a premium on shipment integrity, reliable delivery and end-to-end visibility.
The Nairobi–Lagos operation also highlights the potential for specialised air logistics to support commercial links between East and West Africa, particularly for goods requiring controlled handling and time-sensitive transport.
