Kakamega: Kakamega County has initiated the expansion of the Butere Hatchery, aiming to increase its production capacity to over 60,000 day-old chicks per cycle. This strategic move targets enhancements in food security, job creation, and farmers’ income. The hatchery currently produces 12,000 day-old chicks per cycle.
According to Kenya News Agency, the expansion project is part of the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) Programme and was officially launched during the inaugural Project Management Committee meeting at the hatchery in Butere Sub-county. Chief Officer for Public Works Pascal Were emphasized that the expansion would be executed in strict accordance with the approved Bill of Quantities and technical specifications to ensure quality, value for money, and timely completion.
The upgraded hatchery is expected to align with Governor Fernandes Barasa’s wealth creation agenda by promoting poultry farming as a viable commercial enterprise for households across the county. Chief Officer for Agriculture Emmanuel Kariuki highlighted that the expanded facility would produce quality day-old chicks, which will be available to farmers at affordable prices, thereby boosting poultry production and strengthening food security.
Furthermore, the project aims to enhance household incomes and reduce reliance on chick suppliers from outside the county. The expansion includes constructing a 350-metre perimeter wall, establishing a modern poultry production unit, solarising the hatchery, and installing a reliable water supply system for both the hatchery and the neighbouring community. Additional solar panels will also be installed to strengthen the existing power system.
The county government anticipates completing the project within six months as part of efforts to promote climate-smart agriculture and reinforce the poultry value chain under the FLLoCA Programme. County Structural Engineer Jared Salano was among the officials present at the Project Management Committee meeting.
