Meat traders in Busia have a reason to smile after the Kenya Livestock Commercialization Project (KeLCoP), embarked on improving the market and slaughterhouse across the County, to help livestock traders maximise their profit.
According to Dr Michael Kipyegon, the livestock marketing specialist for the KeLCoP, the project aims at increasing the income of more than 110,000 households in Kenya, who depend on livestock for livelihood.
Addressing the media after touring the Busia Municipality slaughterhouse and proposed Funyula Livestock Market, Dr Kipyegon, noted that they plan to improve the Busia Municipality slaughterhouse, as well as livestock sale yards in various markets within the County, including the one at Funyula Market.
To facilitate proper management of livestock, sale yards in Busia County, Dr Kipyegon revealed that KeLCoPK is going to support the Busia County government in finalising the Sale Yard Bill, to help manage the market effectively, adding that the new facilities will improve the sale of livestock products and meat products to increase income of the Busia people.
His sentiments were echoed by Engineer Stephen Melly, from the State Department for Public Works, saying they work closely with KeLCoP in offering technical support in the livestock development market by identifying, establishing, designing, and facilitating the construction of the livestock market.
The Busia County Director-In-Charge of Livestock Production, Mr David Mukabane, the team from KeLCoP mapped out areas that require upgrading, especially at Busia Slaughterhouse and he is optimistic that upon the completion the facility will serve the County people effectively.
Besides Funyula Livestock Markets, Mr Mukabane noted that more livestock markets in Busia County will be improved including the one in Elugulu ward, in Butula, and Angurai in Teso North sub-counties.
Busia County KeLCoP Coordinator, Mr Radoli Shiundu, reported that already the project is upgrading the Nambale Livestock Sale Yard at a cost of Sh 22m.
By Absalom Namwalo
