Kenyan counties invest in poultry projects to grow local meat, egg production

KENYA – Poultry meat production in Nakuru County is generating income worth over US$3.7 million (KSh 489 million) each year, driven by a county-led project targeting small-scale farmers.

In addition to meat, the same initiative has resulted in the production of more than 67 million eggs annually, generating an estimated US$6.6 million (KSh 875 million) in sales, according to county data.

The program, which supports 3,000 groups including women, youth, and persons with disabilities, provides improved indigenous chicks, feeds, incubators, and veterinary care.

Nakuru County has allocated over US$197,000 (KSh 25 million) to the poultry development program, with the aim of creating market-ready farmers who can supply beyond the local market.

While Nakuru has focused on broadening its market base, Meru County is expanding poultry farming at the household level through a partnership with the Korea Programme on International Agriculture (KOPIA).

In Meru, a community project launched two years ago has reached more than 700 households, each receiving a starter pack of eight improved indigenous chicks.

Some farmers have since grown their flocks to over 100 birds, aided by structured training in vaccination, disease prevention, housing, and feed management.

A hatchery established in Ngonyi village supplies improved chicks at low cost, reducing farmers’ reliance on commercial hatcheries and limiting transport-related losses.

The local hatchery model has helped to lower chick mortality rates, allowing more farmers to raise chickens to maturity and sell them for meat or eggs.

These county-led projects are also contributing to job creation and raising household income, particularly in rural areas.

As the poultry sector continues to expand, experts estimate its value could surpass US$22 million (KSh 3 billion) if current efforts in breed quality, disease control, and market access are sustained.

To complement production, technical training has been integrated into agricultural extension services and college curricula, providing farmers and students with practical poultry management skills.

Despite the progress, many farmers still face barriers including high feed costs, unpredictable market prices, and outbreaks of poultry diseases.

To address these issues, counties are working with development organizations to introduce small-scale feed production and improve veterinary outreach.

The poultry sector is increasingly seen as a viable path to economic inclusion, though its long-term success may depend on consistent investment and farmer support systems.

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