Relief for herders in Lamu as revamped Nagele livestock market reopens

The reopening of the Nagele livestock auction market has been met with relief and excitement by residents of Lamu County as it spares livestock keepers from long, costly journeys to Garsen township in Tana River County.

The revitalised market, now operating in the Witu Division of Lamu West, is expected to inject over Sh10 million annually into the local economy and has positioned itself as an essential hub for livestock trade in the region.

This development promises to benefit farmers, traders, and herders from Lamu and neighbouring counties, including Tana River, Garissa, Kilifi, and beyond.

Many local traders voiced their gratitude, noting the market’s revival is a much-needed solution for livestock keepers.

Fatuma Ali, a livestock trader from Mkunumbi, was excited about the new development.

“This is a blessing to us. We used to spend so much money just to get our animals to Garsen and sometimes they wouldn’t even make it. Now, we can sell closer to home and save both time and money.”

Amir Hassan, a herder from Pangani, echoed these sentiments, noting the impact the market will have on herding communities.

“This market is a lifeline for us herders. The journey to Garsen was exhausting, especially during dry seasons. Many animals would not survive the trip, and we lost a lot. Now, with Nagele right here, our animals can arrive in good condition and fetch better prices,” Amir said.

Lamu Governor Issa Timamy, while speaking during the reopening of the market, said the move is a welcome relief for livestock traders in Lamu, who in the past have had to trek with their animals all the way to Garsen township in Tana River County just to sell their animals.

Timamy said the revival of the Nagele livestock market signals a new chapter for economic development, resilience, and communal prosperity in Lamu County.

“I am happy to preside over the reopening of the Nagele livestock market here in Witu Ward. This facility marks a pivotal moment for the region's economy and community as the largest livestock market in the county. Reopening of this market will also ensure the county earns over Sh10 million in revenue annually since traders and investors can freely buy and sell their animals from this market,” said Timamy.

Tax waiver

He further noted that his administration had given the traders a three-month tax waiver as a way of enabling them to adjust.

He also emphasised that his administration remains committed to transforming the county into a livestock hub by creating infrastructure that paves the way for a conducive environment for livestock traders and investors.

“As we reopen Nagele market, my administration will allow traders to operate for three months without them having to be taxed. We believe the three-month waiver shall enable our traders here to adjust,” said Timamy.

Lamu County Livestock and Cooperative Development Executive, Faiz Fankupi, called on the traders, livestock keepers and investors to put the Nagele market into good use to enable them to benefit from it for long.

“This facility was reconstructed at a cost and needs to be taken care of. You shouldn’t use it carelessly. Let them use it properly so that we benefit for a long time from it,” said Fankupi.

Lamu is known for having many herders, including those from the neighbouring counties of Tana River and Garissa, who end up flocking to the county whenever there is drought.

Among the areas known to have hundreds of livestock in Lamu County are Pangani, Witu, Lake Amu, Hongwe, Koreni, Mkunumbi, Hindi, Bar’goni and surrounding areas.

Mzee Omar Mwangi, an elder from Hindi, praised the county government’s effort to support herding communities and revitalise the local economy.

Respected and valued

“This market means a lot to us, especially for older people who have been trading livestock here for years. We have always had to go to Garsen, but now we have our own market. It feels like our traditions and ways of life are being respected and valued,” said Mwangi.

The reopening of the Nagele Livestock Auction Market has also attracted traders from neighbouring counties like Garissa and Kilifi, building Lamu’s reputation as a regional livestock centre.

Governor Timamy assured residents that his administration remains committed to transforming Lamu into a major livestock hub by continuing to improve infrastructure.

Halima Mohamed, a trader who attended the reopening, was optimistic about the market’s potential to create inter-county trade.

“I came here to see what the new market is all about. We hope this place will bring more traders from different areas. When more people come, it’s good for business, and we can learn from each other,” she said.

The county also plans to improve essential resources at the market, including access to water and veterinary services, to ensure sustainable operations for livestock traders.

Local youths are also hopeful about employment opportunities.

Ahmed Salim, a resident of Witu, expressed his excitement on the reopening of the market.

“This market is bringing more people to our area, and we hope it creates job opportunities for young people. We can help manage the market or transport animals. It’s a way for us to build our lives here without having to leave,” Ahmed said.