The Kenyan government, in collaboration with international partners, has launched a Sh9.46 billion initiative to support 110,000 small-scale farming households across 10 counties. The six-year Kenya Livestock Commercialization Project (KeLCoP), funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and Heifer International, aims to enhance livestock production and improve rural incomes.
Speaking during a validation visit in Kakamega, KeLCoP National Project Coordinator Professor Moses Kembe outlined the project’s focus on four key value chains: indigenous poultry rearing, beekeeping, sheep farming, and the production of dairy and goat meat. “The project aims to create better opportunities for rural farmers by helping them commercialize their livestock production and increase their output,” said Prof. Kembe.
The project also seeks to promote productive employment and enhance food security, with special attention to women, youth, and marginalized groups involved in small ruminant farming, locally improved chicken rearing, and beekeeping.
The 10 counties set to benefit from this initiative include Kakamega, Bungoma, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, Marsabit, Samburu, Busia, Siaya, Nakuru, and Trans Nzoia. Through increased livestock productivity and commercialization, the project aligns with the government’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda, which aims to boost rural farmers’ incomes and improve nutrition and food security.
Scheduled to run until September 2027, KeLCoP is expected to leave a lasting impact on rural livelihoods by fostering sustainable agricultural practices and enhancing the economic resilience of small-scale livestock farmers.
