Plans are being developed to establish feedlots in 490 wards within Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) to help pastoralists mitigate the impacts of drought.
Harsama Kello, the Principal Secretary for ASALs and Regional Development, emphasized the government’s commitment to tackling drought-related challenges in these regions, which have suffered significant livestock losses due to ongoing dry spells. He spoke in Sololo, Marsabit County, during a public engagement event for the Walda Integrated Agro-Pastoralism Feedlot project.
“President William Ruto has directed the construction of feedlots in 31 ASAL counties. Over the past five years, pastoralists have lost more than 2.5 million livestock, leading to increased poverty in these areas,” Kello noted. The initiative across the 490 wards is projected to cost 13 billion Shillings.
He added that the government will prioritize 10 counties: Garissa, Mandera, Tana River, Isiolo, Samburu, Turkana, Baringo, West Pokot, Wajir, and Marsabit. “While the President has mandated feedlot projects in 31 counties, we will focus first on these 10 to help cattle endure persistent droughts,” he said.
The Walda Integrated Agro-Pastoralism Feedlot project, set to cost 27 billion Shillings in Marsabit County, is being implemented by the Ewaso Ng’iro North Development Authority. It will cover 12,000 acres and benefit over 1,000 livestock keepers in the region.
“We have received approval from the Marsabit community to establish the feedlot in Walda, designed to support pastoralists during droughts, especially with the anticipated La Niña following the recent El Niño season,” Kello explained. The project is expected to accommodate over 2,000 animals in addition to those owned by local farmers, representing a significant opportunity for livestock keepers.
Residents who have contributed land for the Walda feedlot project praised the initiative, noting it would create job opportunities for youth and enhance livestock breeding.
Marsabit Governor Mohamud Ali endorsed the project, urging the community to embrace it as a means to recover from previous dry seasons. County Commissioner James Kamau highlighted that the Walda feedlot project includes over 10 additional components, such as cattle fattening and water points, all benefiting the local community.
Residents expressed optimism that the project would provide job opportunities for the youth, reduce drug and substance abuse linked to idleness, and strengthen the region’s resilience to drought.
