By Calvin Awora
The Siaya County Department of Agriculture has today distributed 4,750 one-month-old improved kienyeji chicks to 190 farmer groups in West Alego Ward under the Ward Development Initiative, in a move aimed at strengthening household incomes and enhancing food security.
The improved kienyeji breed is widely valued for its dual purpose benefits—meat and egg production—alongside faster growth rates and higher productivity compared to traditional indigenous chickens.
Farmers rearing the birds for meat can expect them to reach market-ready weight within 3 to 4 months, averaging between 1.5kg and 2.5kg under proper feeding with high protein grower or finisher mash. Those focusing on egg production can anticipate the birds to begin laying at 5 to 6 months, with an annual output ranging between 150 and 280 eggs.
To ensure sustainability and maximize returns, all beneficiary groups have undergone comprehensive training on feeding practices, vaccination, housing, biosecurity measures, and overall flock management.
The Chief Officer for Agriculture, Ms. Elizabeth Adongo noted that the initiative is designed to equip farmers with both the resources and technical know-how to transform poultry farming into a reliable source of income, while the Area MCA, Hon. Phelix Okumu emphasized that the program reflects a deliberate effort to uplift livelihoods at the grassroots by investing in practical, high-impact agricultural ventures.
The program underscores Governor James Orengo's commitment to empowering farmers through targeted agricultural support and building resilient, income-generating livestock enterprises.