The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has announced a major milestone in the transformation of the Kenya Meat Commission (KMC). Since taking over the management of KMC in September 2020, KDF has disbursed Ksh2.2 billion to farmers, marking a significant investment in the agricultural sector.
The move comes as part of a comprehensive effort to revitalize the state corporation and boost the country’s meat production.
According to KDF, over 50,000 animals have been slaughtered in the last three years, emphasizing the commitment to agricultural development. Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale expressed optimism about the transformation, stating, “The Ministry of Defence is fully committed to supporting KDF in fulfilling its obligations to farmers across the country.”
Duale also highlighted that the KMC’s overhaul aligns with President William Ruto’s vision to invigorate the agricultural industry and position KMC as a leading meat producer in the region.
Lieutenant General (Rtd) Jackson Kasaon, Chairman of the KMC Board, emphasized the significance of the changes, stating, “There is total transformation, and I want to thank the leadership in a special way for turning around this facility into what it is today.” Brigadier James Githaga, the managing commissioner, echoed these sentiments, expressing the board’s commitment to achieving the strategic goals set forth for KMC.
This initiative follows the transfer of KMC from the Ministry of Agriculture to Defence, as part of efforts to address mismanagement and debt that had plagued the commission for years.
Despite initial opposition, the decision to have the Commission managed by the military has been extended, signaling a new chapter in KMC’s evolution and the agricultural sector’s revitalization.
