Maara: The Maara Culture Community-Based Organization (CBO), which consists of 20 cultural groups, has received a significant boost for their new poultry farming project. This venture was made possible through the donation of 1,600 hybrid layer chicks and an initial capital of Sh400,000.
According to Kenya News Agency, Ambassador Kimathi Ntumiiru of the Maara Cultural Dancers revealed that the group’s 400 members each received four chicks. This distribution covers all five wards where the dancers’ groups operate. Ntumiiru expressed that despite previous challenges, the financial support received during the Maara Cultural Festival Season IV has been transformative, enabling members to rear chickens and sell eggs for personal benefit.
Ntumiiru highlighted the project’s potential, stating, “After a period of five months, the chicken will start laying eggs. We also thank everyone who chipped in for us in this project. Despite the discouragements from people, political differences, and the financial hurdles, we have finally launched the project.”
Moffart Kanjeni, representing the Maagi Dancers Group, shared the project’s broader impact, noting its role in providing livelihood, supporting education, and enhancing nutrition. “We are delighted to receive these chicks because this will motivate us as a source of livelihood and keep us busy even as we promote our culture,” Kanjeni said.
Mitheru location Chief, Edna Risper Gakii, encouraged the groups to maintain the initiative, emphasizing its potential to address financial and basic needs. She also urged other residents to consider joining similar groups to foster communal growth.
Purity Wanja, a Nominated MCA, commended the CBO’s leadership, expressing confidence in their business prospects and announcing plans to provide training on table banking to further enhance their investment capabilities.
Fredrick Keya, Mitheru Ward administrator, acknowledged the County Government’s role in supporting the project and praised the unity and ambition of the CBO members and their leader, which have been pivotal in attracting support from benefactors and leaders.
