The National Government has boosted poultry farming in Vihiga County by distributing 5,400-day-old chicks to 45 women’s groups across all wards, in a move aimed at improving livelihoods and strengthening grassroots economic empowerment.
The chicks were presented at Mbale Friends by Principal Secretary for Livestock, Jonathan Mweke and Vihiga County Woman Representative Dr. Beatrice Adagala. The support was delivered through the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) under Dr. Adagala’s patronage.
The initiative is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to promote livestock farming as a sustainable source of income.
According to officials, the beneficiary groups were carefully selected by the Livestock Directorate to ensure the project reaches committed community organizations.
Speaking during the handover, PS Mweke emphasized the role of livestock in stimulating rural economies, noting that the government’s bottom-up economic model is being realized through such practical community-focused programmes.
“These chickens are improved Kienyeji and will be a valuable source of income for members and their families,” Mweke said. “With only 35 days to mature for eggs and meat, and the ability to lay more than 200 eggs a year, they offer a reliable and sustainable revenue stream,” he added.
Dr. Adagala thanked the national government for continuing to invest in projects that uplift local communities. She noted that the poultry initiative would particularly strengthen women’s economic participation in Vihiga.
Director of Veterinary Services Dr. Allan Azegele assured beneficiaries that all chicks had been vaccinated and urged them to follow proper feeding and management practices to maximize productivity.
Community members welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism that the improved poultry breeds would significantly boost their household incomes and overall economic well-being.
The event was also attended by Aldai MP Maryann Kaitany, Vihiga CECM for Agriculture Julius Maruja, and several MCAs.
By Sylvester Muhadi and Rose Wasike
