150 dairy goats have been distributed to the farmers in an effort to improve household nutrition and rebuilding of livelihood of residents a midst the two devastating catastrophes that have greatly compromised livelihoods in the county.
This is part of the county government effort led by the department of Agriculture, Livestock and fisheries to restore livelihoods and combat critical levels of food insecurity and malnutrition in the wake of floods and COVID -19 pandemic.
According to Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, The Covid-19 pandemic and ongoing floods has provoked the displacement of up to 13000 households, destruction of about 8000 acres of rice, 30,000 acres of maize, 16,000 acres of sorgum, 8000 acres of pulse, 2000 acres of cassava, 2500 acres of vegetables and thousands of livestock all with a market value of about 3 billion shillings.
The 150 goats acquired at a cost of Kshs. 5,043,400 will ensure that dairy farmers improve household food and nutrition security, reduce stunting growth among our children under the age of five as well as increase participation of women and the youth in the dairy sub-sector.
The distribution of goats has come as the contribution by the County Government to rebuild livelihood and address food insecurity in the county. The distribution targeted farmers from the 7 sub counties in Kisumu.
The county government has so far put in a robust relief supply strategy that has been ongoing in the various camps in the county to support the vulnerable and the affected residents.
To ensure livelihood sustainability, the county government has further ensured that goats that meet specifications of good health and breeding performance are distributed to the residents.