Trans Nzoia County to Invest Ksh. 500 Million in Aggregation Industrial Park to Boost Agriculture Sector
Governor George Natembeya has unveiled plans for the construction of an aggregation industrial park in Trans Nzoia County, with the aim of revitalizing and bolstering the agricultural sector.
The park, with a budget of Ksh. 500 million, will be a joint effort, with the county government allocating Ksh. 250 million and the national government contributing the remaining funds.
He was Speaking today during the groundbreaking ceremony of the a state-of-the-art chicken slaughter facility in Maili tatu in Kitale, that will be managed by the Trans Queens and Kings Cooperative Society.
In addition to adding value to livestock produce, the facility is projected to increase incomes for local farmers.
To further support this initiative, the governor presented a grant of Ksh. 19,994,514 to the cooperative society to aid in the establishment of the facility. The total project cost is estimated at Ksh. 29,204,014, and the facility will have a processing capacity of 1,600 chickens per day.
Governor Natembeya expressed optimism that the farmers of Trans Nzoia County and beyond will benefit significantly from this substantial support, serving as a driving force to enhance production and ensure the facility operates year-round.
He emphasized that the facility will lead to an upsurge in the number of aggregated, slaughtered, and marketed chickens in the county. Furthermore, it will boost membership in producer organizations, generate employment opportunities, and ultimately increase income for farmers while driving profits for producer organizations and market outlets.
The National Agricultural and Rural Inclusive Growth Project (NARIGP) has identified the local chicken value chain as a priority for support in Trans Nzoia County. Governor Natembeya remains steadfast in his commitment to transform subsistence agriculture into a thriving and commercially oriented sector.
The local chicken value chain plays a pivotal role in the county, providing livelihoods for numerous smallholder farmers.
However, these farmers face several challenges, including the high costs of low-quality feeds, expensive vaccines and drugs, inadequate management skills, and prevalent pests and diseases. These obstacles have impeded productivity and hindered the sector’s growth potential.
Governor Natembeya urged residents to engage in indigenous chicken rearing, emphasizing that the success of the facility hinges on local demand rather than relying on other counties.
He also highlighted his administration’s dedication to reducing animal feed costs to maximize farmers’ profits. Additionally, he stressed the importance of leveraging veterinary officers’ expertise to maintain standards and ensure the quality of animal produce.
The governor urged the contractor to adhere to the agreed-upon timeline for completing the facility. He underscored his administration’s commitment to generating employment opportunities for young people and encouraged residents to join cooperative societies to bolster their bargaining power and strengthen marketing capabilities.
Addressing income disparities in maize production, Governor Natembeya pledged to safeguard farmers in the county from exploitation. He promised support for farmers by introducing improved farming techniques and affirmed his administration’s determination to establish structured market linkages.
This strategic approach will enable local chicken producers in Trans Nzoia County to access broader consumer bases, securing fair prices for their products.
County Agriculture CEC Phanice Khatundi , said the county is committed to boosting production of livestock products.
She emphasized the project’s focus on forging robust connections with national and regional markets. This strategic approach will empower local chicken producers in Trans Nzoia County, enhancing profitability and sustainability within the value chain.
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