Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe commissioned a major new animal feed manufacturing facility in Athi River last week. The KSh 3 billion De Heus Animal Nutrition plant aims to improve livestock productivity across Kenya.
The move supports government plans to double milk and meat output. It also signals stricter enforcement of quality standards for animal feeds nationwide.
State-of-the-Art Facility Boosts Production Capacity
De Heus Kenya officially opened the plant on February 18. It stands as one of the largest feed mills in Africa, with an annual capacity of 240,000 metric tonnes.
The facility features two pellet lines, each producing 20 metric tonnes per hour. This setup focuses on high-quality compound feeds for dairy, poultry, and other livestock.
The investment totals KSh 3 billion (about USD 23 million). It creates 280 direct jobs and supports many more indirectly through supply chains.
De Heus Chairman Co de Heus and General Manager Wiehan Visagie attended the event. They stressed the plant’s role in sustainable growth and farmer support.
CS Kagwe Highlights Shift to Productivity Focus
Speaking at the commissioning, CS Kagwe described the plant as a key step in livestock reform. He explained the need to move beyond expanding herd sizes.
“Today is not just about opening a factory. It is about increasing productivity per cow,” Kagwe said. “The future of Kenya’s dairy and meat sector depends on efficiency, nutrition, genetics, animal health, and quality feed.”
He reaffirmed the government’s target to raise annual milk production from 5.2 billion litres to 10 billion litres. Better feeds play a central role in achieving this.
Kagwe noted that tighter standards will help meet international requirements. This opens doors for exports of milk and meat products.
Tighter Regulations to Ensure Feed Quality
The government plans to enforce stricter rules on animal feeds. This addresses issues like substandard or adulterated products that harm animal health and output.
Officials aim to reduce post-harvest losses and improve consistency. Quality feeds lower production costs for farmers over time.
The new plant aligns with these efforts. It uses research-driven formulations and local raw materials like maize and soybeans.
De Heus sources ingredients from Kenyan farmers. This strengthens backward linkages in the value chain.
Benefits for Dairy and Meat Farmers
Smallholder and commercial farmers stand to gain from reliable, high-nutrition feeds. In dairy-heavy regions, better nutrition boosts milk yield per cow.
For beef producers, improved feeds enhance weight gain and meat quality. This supports both domestic supply and export ambitions.
The facility helps stabilize feed prices in the long run. It reduces reliance on imports for certain inputs.
Extension services will promote best practices in feed use. Farmers receive guidance on balanced rations tailored to local breeds.
Broader Context in Livestock Sector Transformation
Kenya’s livestock sector contributes significantly to rural livelihoods and GDP. Challenges include feed shortages, high costs, and variable quality.
The Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda prioritizes agriculture. Investments like this one fit into wider goals for value addition and self-reliance.
Partners such as the State Department for Livestock Development collaborate on related programs. These include vaccination, genetics improvement, and market access.
Outlook for Increased Output and Exports
With the plant now operational, production ramps up quickly. Farmers access feeds that meet global standards.
CS Kagwe urged continued focus on quality across the sector. He called for joint efforts between government, private players, and producers.
The commissioning marks progress toward a more productive livestock economy. Sustained reforms could position Kenya as a regional leader in dairy and meat.
