Press Release: U.S. Ambassador Opens Two Modern Livestock Markets in Kenya’s Drylands

NAIROBI, Tuesday, October 13, 2015 -- Today, U.S. Ambassador to Kenya Robert F. Godec joined Isiolo Governor Godana Doyo and Marsabit Governor Ambassador Ukur Yatani, as well as international dignitaries, to mark the official opening of two new major livestock markets in Isiolo and Marsabit.  More than 66,000 people are expected to benefit from the Oldonyiro Livestock Market in Isiolo and Merille Livestock Market in Marsabit. 

 

Both modern markets will increase pastoralists’ productivity and profitability by expanding access to animal health supplies and services. In addition, small traders and businesses can rent stalls within the market to sell their goods and promote livestock-related services.

 

The construction of the markets was supported by the U.S. Government, through its development agency, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The markets are co-managed by the Isiolo and Marsabit County Governments and county livestock-marketing associations.

 

“These markets are more than facilities for trading livestock and providing animal health services.  They are a place where livestock keepers, and businessmen and women can capitalize on their hard work and earn a living.” -- U.S. Ambassador Godec

 

The USAID Resilience and Economic Growth in the Arid Lands -- Accelerated Growth project also is supporting the construction of two other modern markets in Isiolo town, Isiolo County, and Moyale town, Marsabit County.  Eight smaller markets -- which act as feeders to the four major markets -- will be upgraded with markets stalls, sale yards, holding crushes, confinement lots, grading cells and veterinary centers.

 

At the event, Ambassador Godec also announced new USAID investments, including KShs 3.5 billion to improve access to safe water and sanitation and KShs 800 million to continue to boost the livestock sector in Garissa, Isiolo, Marsabit, Turkana and Wajir.

 

These efforts are a part of larger U.S. Government undertakings to help Kenyans adapt to, and recover from climatic shocks, such as prolonged drought, in arid and semi-arid counties.