The Principal Secretary for Livestock Development, Hon. Jonathan Mueke, on Saturday, 1st November 2027, presided over the distribution of 6,400 improved chicks to farmers in Kitui County. The event, held in Kabati, Kitui West, brought together representatives from 64 farmers’ groups drawn from each of the county’s eight constituencies.
Speaking during the exercise, PS Mueke said the government remains committed to transforming rural livelihoods through sustainable livestock production. He noted that poultry farming presents a viable opportunity for wealth creation and nutritional improvement at the household level.
“This initiative is not just about giving out chicks — it’s about creating income opportunities for our farmers,” said Mueke. “We are encouraging every group to commercialize livestock keeping so that they can earn more and improve their living standards.”
The program is part of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), a national plan that focuses on empowering ordinary citizens through agricultural development and value chain strengthening. Mueke reiterated that such grassroots initiatives are key to driving Kenya’s economic growth and achieving food security.
He assured farmers that the Ministry of Livestock Development will continue offering technical support, training, and market linkages to ensure that the project yields tangible results. “We want to see Kitui farmers grow from small-scale producers into competitive commercial livestock entrepreneurs,” he added.
Beneficiary groups from across the county lauded the government’s support, expressing optimism that the poultry project would enhance both their income and nutrition. The event reaffirmed the government’s commitment to boosting the livestock sector as a cornerstone of rural economic empowerment.
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BetaKilimo #LivestockCommercialization
