IFAD Grants Kenya $54 Million to Boost Drought Resilience, Livestock Sector

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has approved an additional $54 million (about KES 6 billion) to strengthen Kenya’s livestock sector under the Kenya Livestock Commercialization Project (KeLCoP).

The new financing aims to scale up climate-smart livestock production in Marsabit, Samburu, Nakuru, Baringo, and six other counties. It will support installation of solar-powered water systems, improve animal feed supply chains, and expand market access for pastoral communities.

According to project officials, the investment will benefit nearly 70,000 more households, helping communities shift from emergency drought relief to sustainable livestock production, higher incomes, and stronger climate resilience.

The project is being implemented by the State Department for Livestock Development in partnership with county governments.

KeLCoP focuses on value chains such as sheep, goats, poultry, and beekeeping, positioning livestock as a key driver of food security and inclusive economic growth in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid lands.