Trans Nzoia women urged to do chicken farming
Women doing agribusiness in Trans Nzoia County have been encouraged to diversify from growing the predominant maize crop and embrace poultry farming.
Former Maendeleo ya Wanawake chairperson Naomi Okul and her predecessor Jane Gaitano said maize production has enslaved many farmers and told the women to consider poultry which is paying better than maize which takes more than 10 months to mature.
Speaking at Birunda village in Saboti sub county Sunday, Ms. Okul asked the government to assist more women to realize their dreams of sustaining their families.
''If the county government through ward representatives can help give the women some capital to venture into such business then we will put an end to suffering. I am also asking my fellow women to try their hands into this,'' she said.
Wekesa challenged the women to form groups and try their luck in poultry and end over-dependence on men.
“Days of over-dependence on men are long gone and in this 21st century where women must change their thinking and move forward. Poultry farming is the only type of farming that suits all people especially those with low income,'' she said.
The Director of Trans Queens Self-Help Group Juliana Ngeiywa said that her group has 1568 members with over 30,000 heads of chicken ranging from broilers, layers, and indigeneous breeds.
”These birds are the only source of wealth to our members who range from the common interest groups to the less privileged ones. We sell their products and the proceeds go to supporting our families,” said Julianna.
Ngeiywa hailed the efforts of Trans nzoia county commissioner Sam Ojwang in identifying grants that have kick started the over 140 groups through accessing the earning income activities.
“The National government through our area County Commissioner has helped us through support in increasing the number of birds which I am certain will bear fruits," she said.
