The construction of the Sh850 million Isiolo abattoir, which commenced 16 years ago, is poised to offer a ready market for farmers in the region upon commencement of operations.
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi has said that the facility will be completed within the next 90 days.
“This facility, a cornerstone of the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) agenda, aims to rejuvenate the beef, dairy, and leather value chains,” Linturi said on Friday
Additionally, the project is expected to generate employment for hundreds of young individuals and contribute to the growth of ancillary industries within the livestock value chain, including tanneries.
While inspecting the facility, Linturi emphasized its role as a transformative meat hub, highlighting its potential to benefit six surrounding counties through the sourcing of raw materials from local livestock.
Isiolo, Samburu, Laikipia, Garissa, Wajir and Marsabit. Southern Ethiopia and Somalia are also in the abattoir's catchment area.
To uphold adherence to market standards, Linturi stated that the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development would partner with the county government to provide training for farmers in animal husbandry techniques.
Additionally, he revealed ongoing efforts by the Ministry to establish feedlots in 31 counties, enabling farmers to efficiently fatten their animals to meet market demands.
This initiative, he emphasized, is poised to augment farmers' incomes, improve livelihoods, and foster economic growth in Kenya.
Isiolo has laid the ground to make the county a leader in the leather industry, including through value addition in line with international standards and facility transformation.
Last month, county secretary Dadhe Boru visited the Yetu Leather factory to identify market linkages for leather in Isiolo.
Additionally, the abattoir will catalyse the growth of ancillary industries that process leather and other animal products.
Situated on a 500,000-acre land, inclusive of feedlots, a disease-free zone and a livestock receiving yard, more than 1,800 livestock can be slaughtered per day at the Isiolo Export Abattoir.
The project contractor Isack Hajj said the Isiolo government contributed Sh400 million, while the World Bank gave Sh450 million.
Once completed, the abattoir will employ 80 people directly and benefit more than 20,000 families.