TANA RIVER, Kenya – The County Government of Tana River is keen to revolutionise its livestock sector with transformational projects.
For instance, anytime this year, the coastal Kenya county will see the start of lucerne (animal feed) cultivation by Stella Mundi, a Catholic Church group.
Area Governor Major Godhana Dhadho Gaddae has already presided a county special cabinet meeting where the proposal was approved.
Governor Godhana disclosed that the project would initially irrigate 3,600 hectares before growing to 12,000 hectares.
The county boss hailed the project, saying it is a superb example of a high impact, climate-smart, people-friendly project that would transform the livelihoods of the local population.
“This endeavour involves more than just raising lucerne for animals. It’s about increasing our people’s earnings, opportunities, and resilience,” he stated.
Before the approval, the investors presented their case to the cabinet.
Fr. Anthony Ndung’u, the organisation spokesperson, stated that a comparable effort is in place in Tanzania, where 35,000 hectares are planted with lucerne, and in Zimbabwe, where 350 hectares are planted with potatoes.
How much tonnes of lucerne will be exported annually
According to Mayor Mangeya, the group’s managing director, the initiative would eventually span the entire African continent.
“We will be able to export 75,000 tonnes of lucerne annually from Tana River, which will be a major source of income for the county. There will also be significant benefits for the local livestock. Due to the labour-intensive nature of this project, many employment will be created and food security will be improved for the populace. Lucerne will transform the industry and is the king of fodder,” he declared.
Governor Godhana assured the organisation of his administration’s support but cautioned that the investment must be of direct benefit and impact on the community of Tana River County.
The main topic of conversation was the proposed construction of the 3,600-hectare Lucerne Irrigation Project in Bura-Tana, a ground-breaking private venture that is expected to grow to 12,000 hectares and draw in more than USD 30 million in capital.
It is anticipated that this environmentally friendly investment will transform the region’s fodder supply, assist livestock farming, generate thousands of employment, and strengthen local economies.
The deliberations focused on key aspects of the project:
– Land use and community benefit-sharing
– Infrastructure and irrigation development
– Institutional frameworks and regulatory compliance
“Tana River is prepared to receive high-impact, climate-smart agricultural investments that support the county’s goals of food security and economic transformation,” Governor Godhana further said.
The program, the county boss indicated that it has fully been supported by the Council of Governors, which he said emphasised the need of smart public-private partnerships that support sustainable agriculture, enhance livelihoods, and uplift counties.
“This is not just about growing Lucerne; it’s about growing opportunities, incomes, and resilience for our people,” Governor Godhana added.
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