Migori County has received support of chicks worth Sh500,000 from the national government.
Josaphat Simolo from the State Department for Livestock Development, while handing over 5,000 improved chicks to 35 farmer groups spread across 40 wards of the county said that the project targets to improve the livelihoods of the beneficiaries.
Simolo said that the programme, under Bottom-Up Economic Transformative Agenda BETA aimed at empowering communities, mostly vulnerable persons, women and youth to generate income.
He added that the project seeks to bridge the gap in the poultry industry with the aim of reducing egg and meat importation.
The official also explained that by supporting local farmers, the government hopes to promote agricultural enterprises and create employment opportunities for women and youth.
Migori County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture Lucas Mosenda said that the initiative aligns with the county’s agenda of boosting farmers’ income.
The chicks, known as “Improved Kienyeji,” mature quickly, laying eggs within four months and giving white meat in five months.
The county officials also disclosed that they will provide vaccines at affordable prices and promised to offer backup vaccines to the beneficiaries of the programme.
Mosenda emphasised the importance of monitoring and evaluation to ensure the project is sustained, urging the beneficiaries to be the direct sources of information to track progress.
Wendy Adhiambo, a beneficiary of the programme, thanked the government for the initiative, saying that the chicks will help her improve her earnings as well as expand her business.
By Makokha Khaoya
