Mvurya distributes high breed cattle to small-scale farmers

Kwale government has embarked on distribution of high breed cattle and goats to small-scale farmers across the county.

Governor Salim Mvurya said his administration aims to improve food security, nutrition and livelihood through livestock-keeping and farming.

"We are determined to ensure enough food and steady cash flow at grassroots levels by engaging in various agricultural activities," he said.

Mvurya said competitive agribusiness was the only way to get out of poverty.

The high breed cattle are projected to help local farmers produce enough quality meat and milk within a short time for sale.

The programme was started mainly to upscale local livestock keeping practice to the commercial one to fight poverty and hunger and boost the county economy.

Before residents used to rear cattle for domestic purposes and as a form of wealth of which the practice was less productive.

During harsh weather, a huge percent of animals would die due to drought and diseases. Some were sold desperately at a throw-away prices while the farmers incur losses.

Through the National Agricultural and Rural Inclusive Growth Project, the county is helping farmers improve livestock keeping and farming opportunities to transform their lives.

The project at the start had experienced some hiccups with some cattle, chicks and crops reported to have died due to mismanagement.

But through trained field officers hired by the county to provide farmers with the techniques in crop and livestock farming, it is slowing becoming successful. 

The farmers are also provided with suitable livestock breeds to reap maximum profits with less effort.

For example, the Galla goats which are known for milk and meat and are resilient to harsh climatic conditions and diseases were distributed to places like Kinango and Lunga-Lunga to curb losses during dry weather as it was before.

The farmers are also offered cross-breeding bulls to help produce strong and quality future livestock generation.

The calves will later be supplied to the rest of the farmers to increase productive herd.

The county has also sunk bore holes and water dams to ensure sufficient water for domestic use and irrigation.

Mwakalanga, Nyalani, Dziweni are among the dams benefiting residents.

Apart from the dams, the county has helped smallholder farmers with free seedlings, pesticides and ploughing services.

They were also offered with maize shellers to enhance harvest and good storage management.

According to Mvurya, the county is trying to be self-sustaining in food and livestock products to ensure a vibrant agribusiness environment for development.

He said soon, Kwale will be in demand for fresh produce supplies when the multi-million Kombani market opens.

The market is estimated to be 95 per cent complete and will be operational before the end of this year.

Mvurya said the market will support young entrepreneurs and help farmers increase the value chain of their produce.

-Edited by SKanyara