Kilifi farmers reap rewards from community-driven goat farming project
Each of the beneficiaries received six goats, with the initiative recording 70 new births so far.
Farmers in Marereni Sub-location, Adu Ward in Kilifi County are witnessing significant improvements in their livelihoods through a community-driven goat farming initiative.
The project, funded by Samaritan’s Purse International Relief, has distributed 660 Galla goats to 110 farmers across five villages, Msumarini, Dhololo, Tetesa, Yedi, and Mtsangamali.
More To Read
Each of the beneficiaries received six goats, with the initiative recording 70 new births so far. The Directorates of Livestock Production and Veterinary Services collaborated to implement the project, offering training in meat-goat farming and conducting vaccination and deworming exercises to ensure livestock health.
“This project has been life-changing. Before this, I relied on unpredictable casual work, but now, with my goats, I have a dependable source of income,” said Fatuma Kombe, a farmer from Dhololo.
Farmers in Tetesa echoed similar sentiments, with Ali Mwavuli emphasising the impact of health interventions. “The vaccinations and deworming have kept my goats healthy, and I have already sold some to cover household expenses. It is a new chapter for us,” he said.
Luvuno Chengo shared her optimism for the future. “I used to struggle to feed my children, but now I have hope. These goats are not just livestock, They are a lifeline for my family.”
Farmers during the receiving of the goats across the four villages Msumarini, Dhololo, Tetesa, Yedi, and Mtsangamali in Kilifi County. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)
In Yedi, 62-year-old farmer Juma Charo highlighted the community impact. “This project has brought people together. We now exchange ideas on goat rearing, and the income has helped us access better healthcare and education for our children,” he noted.
Farmer Hassan Said also expressed gratitude for the training. “Before this, I didn't know how to properly care for goats. The knowledge I have gained is invaluable. I’m even considering expanding my herd in the future,” he said.
The project received attention from local leaders, including the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Livestock, Dr Chula Mwagona, who visited Tetesa alongside officials such as Chief Officer for Livestock Christine Pekeshe and County Director of Livestock Production Mwatsuma Kiti.
Dr. Mwagona lauded the initiative, terming it a milestone in enhancing food security and economic empowerment.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to transforming agriculture. By equipping farmers with resources and knowledge, we are ensuring sustainable livelihoods,” said Dr Mwagona.
The project’s success has spurred expansion plans.
Farmers during the receiving of the goats across the four villages Msumarini, Dhololo, Tetesa, Yedi, and Mtsangamali in Kilifi County. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)
The initiative is set to extend to Adu Sub-location, where 88 beneficiaries across four villages will receive 528 goats.
Additionally, 22 beneficiaries will be introduced to beekeeping through the provision of 176 beehives, diversifying income sources for residents.
Farmers in Marereni remain optimistic about the future. “This project is a lifeline for us. It is more than just goats, it's an opportunity for economic independence and a better future for our families,” said Charo.
The Kilifi County Government has reiterated its commitment to fostering partnerships with organisations like Samaritan’s Purse, recognising goat farming as a viable tool for poverty alleviation and economic growth.
The initiative aligns with the county’s Agricultural Transformation Plan, which aims to modernise farming.
