Government to establish industrial park to boost livestock farming
The Ministry of Agriculture is expected to present concrete measures in the coming weeks on how it plans to support livestock farmers and enhance the sector’s contribution to the economy.
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening livestock farming in Kenya, with plans underway to establish a large-scale Kenya Livestock Industrial Park.
Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mutahi Kagwe on Wednesday emphasised the sector's significance, noting that a nation’s strength is measured by its weakest link.
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Speaking before a Senate committee, CS Kagwe assured stakeholders that the Ministry of Agriculture is prioritising livestock farming to ensure its sustainability.
“I want to assure you that the ministry is taking livestock farming seriously because if you want to know a country’s strength, you look at the weakest issues,” he stated.
The Kenya Livestock Industrial Park is expected to be a game-changer for the sector. The CS acknowledged that it will address key challenges facing farmers, which include access to financial support, market structures, and improved breeding techniques.
During the session, Marsabit Senator Chute Mohammed inquired about the Agricultural Finance Corporation (AFC) loans, questioning whether common herders could receive debt relief, particularly in light of financial constraints brought on by drought and other challenges.
The CS noted that discussions on financial interventions were ongoing and that the government is exploring ways to cushion livestock farmers.
Kagwe also mentioned that he had a meeting with another government official, with both parties agreeing to consult further and reconvene in two weeks to deliberate on the way forward.
The engagement with the Senate was held in line with Standing Order 51 (c), which allows legislators to question government policies and initiatives.
The Ministry of Agriculture is expected to present concrete measures in the coming weeks on how it plans to support livestock farmers and enhance the sector’s contribution to the economy.
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