The County Government of Kitui today reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive and participatory development by convening a pivotal public participation forum to deliberate on the proposed establishment of the Kitui Livestock Training Institute (LTI) and a modern feedlot at the B2 Yatta Ranching Cooperative Society.
The consultative meeting, held at the proposed project site, brought together a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including community members, civil society organizations, and representatives from non-governmental organizations. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the State Department for Livestock Development and the County Government of Kitui.
The dual projects are earmarked for land parcels LR No. 12010—located directly opposite the Administration Police Border Patrol Training College—and LR No. 11802, which houses the B2 Yatta Cooperative Society’s existing infrastructure.
Kitui County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture and Livestock, Dr. Stephen Mbaya, led the deliberations and emphasized the significance of public engagement in shaping the future of the county’s livestock sector.
“This forum is a vital step in ensuring transparency, inclusivity, and ownership of the project by the people it is meant to serve,” said Dr. Mbaya. “The Livestock Institute and feedlot will become a hub for livestock breeding, feed management, and farmer training. It will empower our farmers with modern technologies and open up greater market access for quality livestock.”
Dr. Mbaya further noted that the initiative aligns with Governor Dr. Julius Malombe’s 16-sector development blueprint, particularly on food security, agribusiness, and economic empowerment.
Representing the Principal Secretary for Livestock, Jonathan Mueke, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Livestock Marketing Board, Dr. Richard Kyuma, lauded the initiative as a transformative opportunity for Kitui’s rural economy. He highlighted the LTI’s potential to create jobs, offer vocational training for youth, and stimulate regional development through enhanced livestock value chains.
The planned Kitui LTI will become the fourth such institute in Kenya, joining an elite group of national centers of excellence dedicated to livestock research, veterinary services, and sustainable livestock production.
Kitui County Commissioner Kipchumba Ruto was also present and reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that land use and development projects meet legal and community expectations.
Other senior officials in attendance included County Executive Members Frederick Kimanga (Lands), Rose Mutuku (Trade), Joyce Kasyoka (Education), Phoebe Mutemi (Culture), Reuben Itiko (Transport), Richard Mwendandu (Environment), several Chief Officers, and Members of the County Assembly.
The forum concluded with a call for continued dialogue and collaboration to ensure the successful realization of the livestock training and feedlot projects.
Ends
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