Breeding and fodder production centre officially launched in Kween

KWEEN, November 6, 2025 — Farmers in Kween district have received a major boost following the official launch of a breeding and fodder production centre in Ngenge Sub-county, Soi County.

The new centre [Soi Breeding and Fodder Production Centre], established nine months ago, aims to improve livestock rearing, animal feeding, and the household incomes of smallholder farmers in the area.

The launch event brought together farmers, local leaders, and district officials, all eager to learn about the opportunities the project will provide.

A centre to support farmers

Arafat Malewa, the Project Coordinator, said the initiative is designed to help farmers improve their livestock through better breeds and quality fodder.

“Our goal is to make livestock farming more productive and sustainable,” he said. “For a long time, farmers have struggled with inadequate feed, poor breeds, and low milk or meat production. This centre is here to change that by offering training, breeding services, and improved fodder.”

He explained that the centre will train farmers on how to grow their own fodder, make silage, and manage livestock more effectively.
“We will teach farmers how to plant and harvest fodder crops such as Napier grass and maize,” he said. “We will also show them how to store feed for the dry season so that their animals do not suffer when pastures dry up.”

Malewa added that the project will help farmers access new and improved breeds suited to local conditions.
“We want every farmer in Soi County and beyond to benefit,” he said. “When animals are well-fed and of good breed, they produce more milk, grow faster, and generate higher incomes for families.”

Supervision and long-term vision

Chesang Moses Kaggwa, the Project Supervisor, said the centre represents a significant step in promoting modern agriculture in Kween district.

“This project is not just about livestock, it’s about improving the entire farming system,” he said. “When we have healthy animals, we also have better crops because farmers use manure to fertilise their gardens. This makes farming more productive and sustainable.”

He encouraged farmers to take ownership of the project and work together to make it successful.
“This is your project,” he told the gathering. “We want to see every household with enough feed for their animals and enough milk for their families. With commitment and unity, this centre will transform our community.”

Chesang also thanked Wagagai Coffee Farmers SACCO for their continued support and partnership.
“The SACCO has been a strong partner in supporting farmers with savings and credit. Their involvement in this project shows their commitment to the growth of the entire farming sector — not just coffee,” he said.

Fisheries officer encourages integrated farming

Kween District Fisheries Officer, Milton Chebet, who attended the event, also welcomed the new project, noting that it complements other agricultural efforts in the district.

“Agriculture works best when different sectors support each other,” he said. “Livestock farming produces manure that can be used in fish ponds and crop fields. In return, crop residues can be used as animal feed, everything is connected.”

He encouraged farmers to think broadly about how they can integrate livestock, crops, and even fish farming to increase their income.
“This project is an opportunity for farmers to diversify,” he added. “When we combine different farming practices, we can reduce risks and improve household food security.”

Wagagai Coffee Farmers SACCO members speak out

Members of the Wagagai Coffee Farmers SACCO who attended the launch expressed excitement about the partnership and the benefits it will bring.

SACCO Secretary, Shahid Mwanga, said the centre will help farmers reduce the high cost of animal feed.
“Many of us keep cows and goats, but feeding them has been expensive,” he said. “Now that we can grow our own fodder and receive training, we will save money and improve production.”

Another member, Dafala Musobo, said the project will create new opportunities for youth and women.
“Young people can now engage in fodder production and animal rearing as a business,” he said. “This project will help reduce unemployment in our villages.”

Farmers express hope

Farmers who attended the launch said they were eager to begin learning and practising new techniques for planting, harvesting fodder, making silage, and feeding animals properly.

Chelangat Nahiya, a farmer from Ngenge, said the training had given her confidence.
“I have learned that I can grow my own fodder instead of buying it,” she said. “This means I can keep more animals and earn more income.”

A bright future for Kween farmers

Closing the event, Malewa thanked everyone for attending and urged farmers to stay engaged.
“This centre is for all of you,” he said. “Use it to learn, share knowledge, and improve your livelihoods. Together, we can strengthen breeding and fodder production in our communities.”

The ceremony concluded with a tour of the new demonstration plots and the animal breeding section. Farmers left the event hopeful and inspired, saying the project would bring lasting change to their communities.

The Soi Breeding and Fodder Production Centre now stands as a symbol of progress and partnership, showing what can be achieved when farmers, experts, and local leaders work together towards a common goal.

https://thecooperator.news/kween-sacco-leaders-arrested-over-alleged-theft-shs-13mln/

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