Kwale County Boosts Livestock Farming with Gala Goat Distribution

Kwale, Kenya – Kwale County government has launched a significant goat distribution exercise as part of its efforts to enhance local livestock farming. Governor Fatuma Achani spearheaded the initiative in the Golini area of Matuga sub-county, aiming to improve milk and meat production and uplift the livelihoods of local farmers.

According to Kenya News Agency, the distribution of 228 gala goats of improved genetics is designed to assist local livestock keepers in overcoming poverty. The initiative is a part of the Kenya Marine Fisheries and Socio-Economic Development (KEMFSED) program, a project implemented by the national government through the State Department for Blue Economy and Fisheries, and supported by the World Bank.

The governor explained that goats were chosen for their economic value and ease of rearing. “We are committed to making sure that livestock farming is prospering by improving the breeding of cattle, goats, and sheep in the region,” she stated. This latest distribution follows a previous initiative where the county government issued 550 bucks and 30 pedigree bulls to farmers across 10 administrative wards to enhance their animal breeds.

Achani highlighted that the donation of gala goats is part of a series of agricultural value chain programs aimed at boosting livestock productivity and profitability in the region. This move is aligned with the devolved government’s goal of promoting food sufficiency and empowering smallholder livestock farmers.

The focus on goat farming, as explained by the governor, is not just about improving local breeds but also about creating employment opportunities. During the event, which was also attended by Deputy Governor Chirema Kombo and County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture Roman Shera, farmers were advised to utilize the gala goats to enhance their breeds and not to sell them off.

Governor Achani emphasized the ongoing commitment of her administration to the agricultural empowering scheme, aiming to enable farmers in Kwale to produce bigger and better animals for the market. She said, “By providing farmers with high-quality breeding stock, we are equipping them with the necessary resources to improve their livelihoods and contribute to the development of our county.”

Goat farming plays a significant role in the local economy, food security, and the livelihoods of livestock keepers in Kwale. The empowerment initiative is designed to ensure food security and improve livelihoods in the medium to long term. Goats remain an essential source of income and nutrition for many poor and marginal farmers in the region.

Veteran livestock keeper Ali Khadi expressed optimism about the initiative, noting that it will revitalize the livestock industry, bring stability and income to livestock keepers, and help many farmers achieve economic independence and resilience. Khadi emphasized the role of gala goats in boosting food security, increasing household earnings, and reducing poverty in Kwale.