Isiolo County is advancing plans to export livestock to the United Arab Emirates once the Isiolo International Airport upgrade reaches completion, aiming to capitalize on improved infrastructure for regional trade.
The airport's ongoing overhaul includes runway expansion and modernization to meet international aviation standards, facilitating direct meat exports. The county operates an abattoir capable of processing 1,000 goats and sheep, 100 cattle, and 50 camels daily, supported by allocated funds for laboratory construction, refrigeration units, and access roads.
County Governor Mohamed Kuti emphasized that the project would enhance livestock productivity, strengthen food security, and reduce reliance on emergency food aid. Pastoralism contributes 80% of regional income, with a private investor secured to manage market access. A proposed processing plant would add value through meat canning and hide tanning, while 124,000 acres are designated for animal fattening.
Vaccination campaigns targeting Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), Contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP), East Coast Fever (ECF), and Rift Valley Fever (RVF) have covered 542,000 animals. Additional efforts include cattle crush installations, supplementary feeding programs, and generator systems to maintain vaccine viability. Water infrastructure upgrades, livestock restocking, and a 3,000-participant livestock insurance scheme further support resilience against drought and disease.
Agricultural initiatives at the Iresaboru Irrigation Scheme include drought-resistant crop cultivation, while the Kubiqalo Dam project, inspected by Kuti and presidential delegates, aims to enhance irrigation. Riverline improvements and 16 rehabilitated fishponds underscore broader efforts to diversify livelihoods and improve market access for farmers.
