The County Government of Marsabit, in collaboration with the Kenya Livestock Commercialization Project (KeLCoP) and the State Department of Livestock Development, officially commissioned the Maikona Livestock Market today, a state-of-the-art facility poised to revolutionize pastoral livelihoods and boost livestock trade across Northern Kenya.
The event, held in Maikona, was presided over by Mr. Bishar Fille Elmi, Director at the State Department of Livestock Production, representing Hon. Jonathan Mueke, Principal Secretary for Livestock Production, and H.E. Solomon Gubo Riwe, Deputy Governor of Marsabit County, standing in for H.E. Governor Mohamud Mohamed Ali.
A statement by the county government of Marsabit explained that the Maikona Livestock Market is a transformative hub designed to integrate commerce, service delivery, and community welfare, addressing the unique needs of pastoralist communities in Marsabit and beyond.
The facility features modern infrastructure tailored to enhance efficiency, hygiene, and accessibility for traders, pastoralists, and buyers.
Key amenities include sanitary facilities to uphold public health standards, expansive holding pens for streamlined livestock management, and reliable water troughs to ensure animal welfare and maintain market value.
“This market is a game-changer for our pastoral communities,” said Deputy Governor Solomon Gubo Riwe during the commissioning ceremony.
“It not only provides a modern platform for livestock trade but also ensures that our people have access to essential services, from veterinary care to banking, all in one place.”
The market’s design reflects a deep understanding of the daily realities of pastoralist life.
A purpose-built loading ramp facilitates the safe and efficient transfer of animals onto transport vehicles, reducing the risk of injury or loss.
On-site offices house critical services such as banking, veterinary care, security, and cess administration, enabling traders to access support seamlessly, saving time and reducing costs.
Additionally, a spacious shade and an on-site eatery offer comfort and nourishment for market-goers enduring long hours under the region’s harsh sun.
A standout feature of the Maikona Livestock Market is its commitment to inclusivity and economic diversification.
An integrated agrovet store provides access to essential livestock inputs, including feeds, veterinary drugs, and animal care products, empowering pastoralists to maintain healthy herds.
Furthermore, the inclusion of a poultry cage opens opportunities for small-scale traders and households to engage in poultry farming, broadening the market’s economic scope and fostering income diversification.
“The Maikona Livestock Market is more than just a trading hub; it’s a lifeline for our communities,” said Mr. Bishar Fille Elmi.
“By embedding services like veterinary care and agrovet supplies, we are ensuring that pastoralists have the tools they need to thrive in a competitive market.”
The facility’s thoughtful design addresses longstanding challenges in Northern Kenya’s livestock trade, such as inadequate infrastructure and limited access to services.
By centralizing these resources, the market aims to enhance efficiency, improve animal welfare, and boost the economic prospects of pastoralists.
The poultry cage, in particular, responds to the evolving needs of the community, enabling small-scale traders, including women and youth, to participate in the livestock economy.
The Maikona Livestock Market is a flagship project under the KeLCoP initiative, which seeks to commercialize livestock production and strengthen value chains in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid regions.
The partnership between the County Government of Marsabit, KeLCoP, and the State Department of Livestock Development underscores a shared commitment to sustainable development and economic empowerment in pastoralist communities.
As the market begins operations, local leaders and stakeholders are optimistic about its potential to transform the region’s economy.
“This is a milestone for Marsabit and Northern Kenya,” said Deputy Governor Riwe.
“The Maikona Livestock Market will not only boost trade but also create opportunities for our people to build resilient livelihoods.”
With its blend of modern infrastructure, community-focused design, and inclusive features, the Maikona Livestock Market stands as a beacon of progress, promising to reshape the livestock trade landscape and uplift the lives of pastoralists across Northern Kenya.