De Heus Animal Nutrition yesterday began construction of a Sh3 billion ($23 million) animal feed production plant in Machakos County.
The plant, domiciled in the Athi River sub-county, will have an annual capacity of 200,000 metric tonnes upon its completion in 2025.
Its CEO, Koen de Heus, says the new facility underscores the company’s commitment to revitalizing Kenya’s livestock sector.
“Through our presence in Kenya, near key farming communities, we will be able to put our global knowledge to work resulting in enhancement of the productivity and profitability of Kenyan farms,” he said.
“Similarly, working through close partnerships and personalized on-the-farm support, we will endeavour to deliver a seamless tailored solution to farmers every time.”
On his part, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke said the investment is a firm indication of the firm’s faith in the Kenyan economy and its potential for expansion in the regional animal feed market.
“We are excited by the interest and investment by De Heus Kenya in the local animal feed sector. By merging their global expertise with an understanding of Kenya’s agricultural landscape, we hope to see an introduction of agricultural innovations and feed technologies for our farmers, towards meeting Kenya’s food security needs,” said Mueke.
Likewise, Machakos governor Wavinya Ndeti agreed that the move would bolster employment creation in Machakos.
De Heus operates in over 20 countries, with six in African countries.
