Lodwar April 25, 2024 (Public Communication and Media Relations)

In light of the unpredictability of climate change, poultry farming presents a viable option for decent employment for the young people in Turkana. Recognizing this potential, the County Government and the World Food Programme (WFP) have collaborated to empower small-scale poultry farmers in Turkana.

The partnership intends to help farmers reap the benefits of the value chain of poultry products and better prepare for climate change for more profitable and sustainable results.

Naomi Eyanae, a beneficiary of the program received essential equipment, including egg incubators, generators, batteries, solar panels, and deep freezers.

The initiative also targets to attract up to 100 youth, persons with disabilities, and vulnerable members of the community to take up poultry farming as a means of livelihood.

According to WFP Program Officer Peter Mwaniki, the intervention consists of first grouping the intended beneficiaries under Farmers Service Centres (FSC) and then providing them with the necessary equipment and capacity building so they can more effectively manage the challenges associated with poultry farming.

“This strategic approach assists in building the knowledge required by the beneficiaries to bridge the gaps and challenges of market access, job creation, and value addition,” Peter Mwaniki stated.

Peter Mwaniki also emphasized the need for collaborative efforts for more inclusive outcomes that are beneficial to all sector players.

“We hope that these supplies will effectively address post-harvest losses and significantly boost the quality of the end products. This will help in ensuring better prices for consumers,” Mwaniki observed.

During the issuance of the equipment, Joel Maraka, a Livestock Production Officer, highlighted the crucial role of proper handling of fertilized eggs to ensure successful hatching.

“We advise farmers who have benefitted from this program to embrace professionalism and show the same by meticulously planning for all stages of production,” Joel Maraka said.

This transformative initiative not only enhances local agricultural productivity but also aligns with the goals of the County Government and WFP on the diversification of livelihoods through agricultural value chains.