Government and IFAD Invest Sh9.46bn to Enhance Livestock Farming in Kenya

The Kenyan government, along with international partners, has committed Sh 9.46 billion to uplift livestock farming among 110,000 small-scale farmers in 10 counties. The initiative, led by the Kenya Livestock Commercialisation Project (KeLCoP), focuses on enhancing rural employment and food security, particularly for women and youth. The project will continue for six years, concluding in September 2027.

The Government of Kenya, in collaboration with international partners, has allocated Sh 9.46 billion to enhance livestock farming for approximately 110,000 small-scale farmer households across 10 counties. This initiative is part of the Kenya Livestock Commercialisation Project (KeLCoP), which is supported by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and Heifer International and will span six years.

During a recent validation visit in Kakamega, KeLCoP National Project Coordinator Professor Moses Kembe emphasized that the project targets four primary value chains: indigenous poultry rearing, beekeeping, sheep farming, and dairy and goat meat production. It aims to create productive employment opportunities and enhance food security for marginalized groups, including women and youth involved in small livestock and poultry farming.

Professor Kembe stated, “The project is focusing on improving opportunities for the rural poor to enable them to increase their output by starting the commercialisation of their livestock.” The initiative encompasses counties such as Kakamega, Bungoma, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, Marsabit, Samburu, Busia, Siaya, Nakuru, and Trans Nzoia, contributing to the government’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda.

In Kakamega County, the project is specifically assisting 18,844 small-scale livestock households, with targeted support for youth and women in four specific areas including Lugari, Shinyalu, Khwisero, and Butere. The primary objective is to improve income and nutritional outcomes for rural households before the project’s anticipated conclusion in September 2027.

The Sh 9.46 billion initiative led by the Government and international organizations seeks to enhance livestock farming for smallholder farmers in various regions of Kenya. By focusing on crucial value chains and supporting marginalized groups, the project aims to improve food security, increase incomes, and contribute to the agricultural transformation agenda. The commitment indicated by this funding reflects a significant effort towards bolstering the livelihoods of rural communities.

Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke