Kenya has secured an additional KSh 7.1 billion to expand a livestock commercialisation programme expected to reach more farmers and pastoralist households across the country.
The funding from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) will support the Kenya Livestock Commercialisation Project (KeLCoP), which seeks to improve livestock production, increase farmers’ incomes and connect them to better markets.
The programme has also secured a four-year extension to expand its activities beyond the current implementation period.
The additional funding will support improved livestock breeds, climate-smart farming, youth-led agribusiness and the development of market infrastructure.
The project has so far benefited 83,000 households across 10 counties through improved livestock production, water infrastructure and better access to markets, KBC reported.
The programme targets small-scale farmers and pastoralist households, helping them turn livestock keeping into commercially viable businesses.
Under the initiative, investments in boreholes and water pans are helping communities improve access to water for livestock and other income-generating activities.
The project is also supporting livestock markets, slaughterhouses, hay stores and value-addition facilities to help farmers sell their produce and improve earnings.
Beekeeping groups have received beehives, harvesting kits and processing equipment to increase honey production and improve its commercial value.
IFAD Country Director for Kenya Matteo Marchisio led a joint supervision mission that visited Siaya, Busia, Bungoma, Kakamega, Baringo and Nakuru counties to assess progress and identify priorities for the next phase.
The expanded programme is expected to strengthen livestock enterprises, improve livelihoods and enhance food and nutrition security among rural communities.
The new financing will build on the existing partnership between the Kenyan government and IFAD to develop a more productive and commercially competitive livestock sector.
