By Peter Ochieng
Bungoma governor Kenneth Makelo Lusaka has called on residents of the Western region county to embrace agribusiness, spotlighting poultry farming as a key sector with masisive opportunities.
Speaking during the official commissioning of the Skip Poultry Centre in Mikuva, Webuye East, a brainchild of the county first Lady Dr. Margaret Makelo, Lusaka emphasized the project’s potential to revolutionize local economies and provide sustainable livelihoods.
“Skip Poultry Centre will transform the agribusiness landscape, providing a sustainable and profitable pathway for local farmers while enhancing food security in the region. I laud Dr. Makelo for the vast poultry initiative,” said Lusaka.
He committed to replicate the Skip Poultry Centre model across the county, aiming to empower farmers and residents alike. The initiative, the governor noted promises to invigorate the local economy by offering extensive opportunities for training, research, and employment in poultry farming.
“This project will not only ignite the local economy but also provide a robust market for poultry products.”
The Skip Poultry Centre is a multifaceted hub, offering comprehensive services including chicken processing, production and packaging, with a capacity of approximately 6,000 chicken.
On her part, Dr. Makelo said the Centre is only 6 months old, adding that the idea had lingered in her mind for long time before it become a reality, through a 10 year partnership period with late Mzee Edward Kilwa’s family.
Leaders present led by Dr. Juma Mukhwana, the Principal Secretary for the State Department of Industry, contributed over Sh350,000, which translates to over 1,100 aimed at empowering residents.
Area Member of Parliament (MP) Martin Wanyonyi Pepela called on youths and women groups to organize and strategize, so as to become beneficiaries of the Centre.
He said he is ready to acquire chicks for farmers willing to be trained.
Besides providing employment opportunities, the Centre will also act as a learning forum on poultry keeping and preparing farm feeds at farm level among others.