Kenya adopts circular farming to address poultry meat shortage

The Lake Basin Development Authority is promoting a circular farming model in Busia, Kenya, to increase food security and economic opportunity.

This model integrates poultry, fish, and pig farming to turn waste into resources. Farmers use poultry manure to fertilize fish ponds, which then produce nutrient-rich water to irrigate vegetable plots. This system helps maximize productivity in areas where land is limited by urban expansion. Smallholder farmers in the region are adopting these modern methods to overcome production hurdles.

In Malaba, Rebecca Odalo improved her chick survival rate by installing wire mesh to block rodents. In Angoorom, Miriam Ojakol joined a training program to learn modern housing techniques to protect her flock from diseases. These practices allow farmers to produce more food in smaller spaces by using vertical shelving and improved biosecurity. The Kenyan government is supporting these transitions through the Wezesha agribusiness program.

This initiative provides climate-smart farming skills to young people to help bridge a national poultry meat deficit of approximately 6,000 tonnes per year. The Lake Basin Development Authority also plans to develop affordable poultry feeds to reduce costs for local farmers. Additionally, a technology transfer center in Kisumu now produces 300 trays of eggs every day for the local market.