COUNTY BEGINS EXPANSION OF BUTERE HATCHERY

The County Government of Kakamega, through the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) Programme, has commenced the expansion of the Butere Hatchery in a move aimed at increasing poultry production to over 60,000 day-old chicks per cycle. The project is expected to enhance food security, create employment opportunities, and improve farmers’ access to quality chicks across the county.

Speaking during the inaugural Project Management Committee (PMC) meeting, Chief Officer for Public Works, Mr. Pascal Were, noted the importance of strict adherence to the Bill of Quantities (BQ) and project specifications to ensure value for money and timely completion of the works. He noted that the project will significantly contribute to Governor Fernandes Barasa’s Wealth Creation pillar by strengthening poultry farming as a sustainable source of income for local households.

Chief Officer for Agriculture, Mr. Emmanuel Kariuki, noted that once completed, the expanded Butere Hatchery will significantly boost Governor Fernandes Barasa’s Food Security pillar by increasing the production of quality day-old chicks. He noted that the chicks will be sold to farmers across Kakamega County at affordable prices, helping to improve poultry production, enhancing household incomes, and strengthening the county’s poultry value chain.

The expansion works will include the construction of a 350-metre perimeter wall, development of a modern poultry unit, solarization of the hatchery, installation of a reliable water supply system to serve both the hatchery and the neighbouring community, and installation of additional solar panels to complement the existing power system.

The project is expected to be completed within six months, further strengthening Kakamega County’s commitment to climate-smart agriculture, food production, and economic empowerment through the FLLoCA Programme.

Present during the PMC meeting was County Structural Engineer, Eng. Jared Salano.