Governor Ali backs youth-led dairy project

Marsabit Governor Mohamud Ali speaking./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Marsabit Governor Mohamud Ali has called for increased investment in youth-led enterprises, saying empowering young people through entrepreneurship is key to creating jobs, combating drug abuse and driving sustainable economic growth.

Speaking during a fundraising event for the proposed BIFTU Milk Processing Plant Project in Sololo, the governor praised the BIFTU Umbrella Self-Help Group for spearheading what he described as a transformative initiative that would strengthen the county's dairy sector while creating employment opportunities for young people.

Governor Ali said the proposed milk processing plant represents more than an industrial investment, describing it as a symbol of youth innovation and self-reliance.

"What the young people behind this initiative have envisioned is far more than the establishment of a milk processing plant, it is a bold investment in the future of Sololo's economy. It is a practical demonstration that our youth are not merely seeking opportunities; they are creating them," he said.

The proposed processing facility aims to add value to milk produced by local pastoralist communities by manufacturing products such as pasteurised milk, fermented milk (mala), yoghurt, cheese, butter and ghee.

According to the governor, value addition will enable dairy farmers to earn higher returns from their produce while reducing post-harvest losses and expanding market opportunities for livestock keepers across Sololo and neighbouring areas.

The project is also expected to strengthen local value chains, stimulate entrepreneurship and retain more income within the local economy.

Governor Ali urged leaders at all levels to support young people pursuing innovative business ideas, noting that youth-led enterprises are essential for addressing unemployment and accelerating economic transformation.

"As leaders, it is our responsibility to stand with and support young people who dare to dream and transform those dreams into impactful community initiatives. When our youth embrace innovation, enterprise and self-help, we must create an enabling environment for them to succeed," he said.

He observed that empowering young people with sustainable livelihoods provides meaningful alternatives to idleness, helping reduce drug and substance abuse while restoring hope among the youth.

"Every job created, every litre of milk processed and every farmer empowered contributes to building a stronger, more resilient and prosperous Sololo," the governor added.

Marsabit County is one of Kenya's leading livestock-producing regions, with pastoralism forming the backbone of the local economy.

However, limited processing facilities have meant that most livestock products are sold in raw form, reducing earnings for farmers and limiting employment opportunities within the county.

The county government has been promoting value addition in the livestock sector as part of its broader economic development strategy.

Investments in milk processing, meat processing and leather production are expected to enhance incomes, improve food security and create jobs for thousands of young people.

Governor Ali commended the BIFTU Umbrella Self-Help Group for demonstrating that community-driven initiatives can unlock local economic potential through unity and innovation.

He expressed confidence that the project would inspire other youth groups across Marsabit to venture into agribusiness and other productive enterprises.

The governor also appealed to development partners, the private sector and financial institutions to support youth-led projects that create employment and promote inclusive economic growth.

If completed, the BIFTU Milk Processing Plant is expected to provide a ready market for milk from pastoralist communities in Sololo and surrounding areas while contributing to Marsabit County's efforts to modernise its livestock industry and expand value-added agricultural production.