The national government is committed to improving local livestock breeds and promoting disease control to boost the livestock sector, Livestock Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke has said.
Speaking during the commissioning of various livestock infrastructure projects under the Kenya Livestock Commercialization Project (KeLCOP) in Siaya County, Mueke emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships between the national and county governments. He announced that the government would roll out national vaccination campaigns in collaboration with devolved units to curb the spread of animal diseases and enhance trade in livestock products.
“We have had a discussion with the county government and we have agreed that we will continue with our collaboration to ensure that we increase our production of livestock and livestock products,” said Mueke. He urged Siaya residents to take advantage of government initiatives to improve livestock breeds and boost competitiveness in regional and international markets.
Mueke was accompanied by senior ministry officials, Siaya County Commissioner Nobert Komora, and Siaya County Secretary Joseph Ogutu. He lauded the close cooperation between the national and county governments, which he noted had enabled the smooth implementation of KeLCOP projects in the area.
Representing Governor James Orengo, Siaya County Assembly Speaker George Okode revealed that the county had received Ksh 46 million under KeLCOP. He called for the expansion of the project to all 30 wards in Siaya, noting that it currently benefits only four. Okode also appealed for the construction of modern livestock markets in Aram, Boro, Akala, and Bar Ober to further support the livestock value chain.
He commended the national government for the support and urged local residents to take ownership of the commissioned projects, use them responsibly, and leverage them to transform their livelihoods.
Among the projects commissioned by PS Mueke were the Arongo water pan in West Uyoma Ward, Bondo slaughterhouse and borehole in North Sakwa Ward, and the Ng’iya livestock market in South East Alego Ward. These facilities are expected to boost livestock productivity and enhance market access for local farmers.
