By Samson Wire
The County Government of Siaya, under the leadership of Governor James Orengo, through the Department of Agriculture, Food Security, Livestock, and Blue Economy, has launched a three-day programme to distribute high-yielding sheep breeds to farmers across the county.
The programme, implemented in collaboration with the Kenya Livestock Commercialization Project (KeLCoP), aims to promote the adoption of exotic breeds such as Dorper sheep. These breeds are highly productive in milk, meat, and other by-products, offering farmers greater commercial value and economic benefits. The three-day initiative began with the distribution of breeder sheep in West Uyoma and North Sakwa, with other areas scheduled to follow in the coming days.
According to Mrs. Elizabeth Adongo, Chief Officer for Agriculture, Livestock, Food Security, and Blue Economy, the breeds are highly productive, yielding nutritious milk and quality meat. Mrs. Adongo thanked the project team for their successful efforts and acknowledged the development partners, led by Kibos breeders, for supplying both exotic and local breeds.
The 37 Dorper sheep distributed are for milk production, while days two and three will include breeds focused on milk as well as poultry. "The Nyalore administration has placed significant emphasis on transforming agriculture to create gainful employment and promote commercialization," said Mrs. Adongo. "We must modernize our processes, make informed decisions, and implement effective activities to achieve optimal production."
"We need the right animals for the right value," she added, noting the substantial infrastructural developments and positive changes observed in the sector. She further urged stakeholders to adopt new approaches aligned with modern development trends and best farming practices.
Recognizing that livestock production integrates well with other farming activities, Mrs. Adongo encouraged farmers to capitalize on the ongoing long rains and the County Government's Smart Farm initiative to maximize yields. The Smart Farm initiative, launched by the Nyalore administration through the Department provides farmers with renewed momentum, knowledge, and skills via extension officers. It also supplies seeds and fertilizers, while offering training on disease control for livestock and crops, as well as strategies to manage associated risks.
Present at the event were KeLCoP County Project Coordinator Dr. Mark Otieno, Director of Veterinary Services Dr. George Otieno, development partners, and other key sector players.