The Kenyan government announced in 2019 its decision to sell the Kenya Meat Commission (KMC) to a private investor, ending years of public funding without measurable economic returns.
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mwangi Kiunjuri stated the move follows persistent financial losses at the Athi River facility, which failed to meet operational targets despite multiple capital injections. A task force will be established to oversee the privatization process, with officials from the Privatisation Commission participating.
"We are in the process of privatizing KMC," Kiunjuri said during a press briefing. "The task force will ensure a structured transition, as further public investment is no longer viable." He emphasized the state's significant financial commitments to the company without achieving its intended economic impact.
Livestock Principle Secretary Harry Kimtai highlighted that privatization would improve KMC's viability for international trade. He outlined plans to expand Kenya's export slaughterhouse capacity, including four existing facilities and four new ones under construction, aiming for a total of eight specialized export plants.
The KMC privatization is part of the government's broader strategy to divest 26 state-owned enterprises, as outlined by the Privatisation Commission. This decision comes amid ongoing debates about public sector efficiency and fiscal responsibility.
