Principal Secretary for the State Department for Livestock Development, Jonathan Mueke, has underscored the importance of value addition in unlocking the full potential of livestock farming, particularly in dryland regions.
During a visit to the Ndui Beekeeping Group in Mutomo/Kibwea Ward, Kitui South, PS Mueke reiterated the government’s commitment to helping farmers transition from subsistence to commercial livestock production. The group had previously received support from the department in the form of modern beehives, and the PS returned to assess their progress and deliver a cash donation he had earlier pledged.
“Value addition is essential for livestock commercialization. It enables our farmers to increase their income, create jobs, and grow the local economy,” said PS Mueke. “Our goal is to make livestock a key driver of rural prosperity and national development.”
The cash support is intended to help the group enhance honey processing and packaging, ultimately improving product quality and boosting market access.
PS Mueke emphasized that the State Department for Livestock Development remains steadfast in its support for livestock farmers across Kenya, aiming to grow the sector’s contribution to the GDP and create sustainable employment.
He was accompanied by a delegation of Kitui County MCAs: Hon. Deborah Mutuku, Hon. Ciambutura Karigi, Hon. Benjamin Mulandi, and Hon. Fridah Maua. The leaders praised the beekeeping group for their dedication and encouraged similar initiatives across the county.
The visit highlighted the transformative power of targeted government support in strengthening livestock value chains and improving livelihoods in arid and semi-arid regions.
