Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani has distributed 30 dairy cows to two common interest groups from Ramisi and Vanga Wards in Msambweni and Lunga Lunga Sub-counties, respectively, in a move aimed at improving household incomes and strengthening the local dairy industry.
The initiative, funded by the World Bank through the Kenya Marine Fisheries and Socio-Economic Development (KEMSFED) project, is designed to increase milk production, enhance food security, and stimulate the county’s economy through livestock farming.
Each beneficiary received a dairy cow, personal protective equipment (PPE), vaccines and supplements, a starter park, grass seeds and animal feed, as well as sexed semen to support breeding.
To date, the Kwale County Government has distributed over 100 dairy cows and more than 200 dairy goats to smallholder farmers across the county. The programme has significantly improved livelihoods and contributed to poverty reduction in rural communities.
Speaking during the handover ceremony at Mafisini in Msambweni Constituency, Governor Achani reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to scaling up livestock farming as a pathway to economic empowerment.
“I want to state categorically that milk production and value addition in our county will thrive under my administration. Through the continuous distribution of dairy cows and goats, we aim to increase farmers’ income and improve their quality of life,” she said.
Ramisi Ward MCA and Kwale County Assembly Majority Leader Hanifa Badi Mwajirani pledged full support from the assembly for community-targeted development projects, including livestock distribution.
“We have seen remarkable improvements in milk production thanks to this county initiative. I assure the Governor that any project aimed at benefiting our residents will receive our backing in the assembly,” she said.
Priscilla Kyulu, a project beneficiary, praised the county government, noting that the dairy cow she received will help address key livelihood challenges such as food security and school fees.
“The success of this project will go a long way in solving the everyday problems we face, especially meeting our basic needs,” she said.
As Kwale intensifies its efforts to expand milk production and value addition, Governor Achani has urged residents to take ownership of the dairy project to ensure its sustainability and long-term benefits for farming communities.
By KBC Digital
