Kenya Airways Cargo said it flew more than 50 cattle from Nairobi to Lagos in its first cattle charter as it expands specialised freight services.

The airline announced the shipment on 27 Oct 2026 as part of its push into higher-value cargo markets beyond conventional general freight.

The operation connects Kenya’s livestock trade with West Africa through specialised air transport and supports the airline’s ambition to develop Nairobi’s freight gateway role.

“Live animal shipments require meticulous planning, specialised handling and close coordination throughout the journey,” said Kenya Airways Cargo Director Fitsum Abadi.

The airline said the dedicated charter departed from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi and arrived at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

Kenya Airways Cargo handled the animals through its KQ Live product designed for shipments requiring specific handling procedures and environmental controls.

The airline said these controls include temperature regulation and ventilation measures intended to support animal welfare during transit.

It said the charter required tailored logistics planning and operational coordination alongside adherence to applicable animal transport regulations.

Abadi said the maiden Lagos operation demonstrated the airline’s ability to respond to complex cargo requirements across Africa.

He said the shipment reinforced Kenya Airways Cargo’s commitment to supporting intra-African trade through flexible and reliable cargo services.

The airline said its broader cargo strategy involves expanding capacity and developing specialised freight segments beyond its conventional general cargo business.

Its target segments include pharmaceuticals, perishables, dangerous goods, live animals and e-commerce shipments.

Kenya Airways said each segment requires specific handling capabilities and regulatory compliance alongside reliable operations.

The airline aims to diversify revenue streams and improve cargo yields through these services rather than relying solely on general freight.

It also wants to strengthen Nairobi’s position as a regional gateway for high-value shipments moving through its hub.

Kenya Airways said specialised services would help distinguish its cargo business in an increasingly competitive freight market.

The airline said customers in this market value shipment integrity and reliable delivery alongside visibility throughout the transport process.

It said the Nairobi to Lagos operation points to opportunities for commercial links between East and West Africa.

Those opportunities concern goods requiring controlled handling and time-sensitive transport according to the airline’s statement.

Kenya Airways said additional widebody aircraft capacity and strategic partnerships are expected to support its broader cargo expansion plans.

The airline belongs to the SkyTeam Alliance and serves 42 destinations worldwide including 35 in Africa according to its company profile.