COUNTY BEGINS PLANS FOR EXPANSION AND REHABILITATION OF BUTERE HATCHERY

The County Government of Kakamega has officially commenced the expansion of the Butere Hatchery in Marama Central, following the groundbreaking ceremony held this afternoon.

The event was led by the County Executive Committee Member for Water, Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, Mrs. Peninah Mukabane, alongside her Agriculture counterpart, Mr. Mophat Mandela.

The project, which is being implemented in two phases, is expected to significantly boost poultry production in the county. Phase One, scheduled for completion within six months, will involve the construction of a modern poultry house, installation of a perimeter wall around the hatchery and solarization of the facility to enhance efficiency and sustainability.

Speaking during the ceremony, Mrs. Mukabane noted that the project is being funded under the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) Programme. She directed the contractor to prioritize employment opportunities for local youths, women and vulnerable groups during the construction period to ensure the project delivers direct socio-economic benefits to the community.

She also used the opportunity to update residents on the various development initiatives being implemented by the administration of H. E. Governor Fernandes Barasa across the county, reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving livelihoods.

On his part, CECM for Agriculture, Mr. Mophat Mandela, said the upgraded hatchery will increase its monthly chick production capacity from 12,000 to 60,000 chicks.

He noted that the expansion will not only create employment opportunities but also strengthen poultry farming by ensuring a steady supply of quality chicks to farmers across Kakamega’s sub-counties.

Mr. Mandela, further, emphasized that his department is committed to transforming the facility into a full-fledged chick production factory capable of meeting the growing demand for poultry farming in the county and beyond.

Also present was the Chief Officer for Agriculture, Mr. Emmanuel Kariuki, who urged residents to safeguard the project by remaining vigilant and promptly reporting any cases of vandalism to the relevant authorities.