The Kenyan government has announced plans to privatize the Kenya Meat Commission (KMC), a state-owned entity facing persistent financial losses and operational challenges. Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mwangi Kiunjuri stated the Ministry of Agriculture will cease further public funding for the parastatal, emphasizing the need for private sector involvement to restore viability.
Kiunjuri revealed the government is forming a task force to oversee the privatization process, with members from the Privatisation Commission. He noted significant funds have been invested in KMC without substantial results, prompting the shift toward private ownership. "We are in the process of privatizing KMC, and the task force will be established next week," he said during a press briefing.
Livestock Principle Secretary Harry Kimtai highlighted that privatization would enhance KMC's economic sustainability and expand Kenya's livestock exports. He mentioned plans to develop eight international slaughterhouses, including four new facilities in counties, to boost export capacity. Kimtai acknowledged KMC's past struggles, stating privatization is the most viable solution to address its challenges.
The Athi River-based meat processing plant joins 26 other government parastatals identified for sale by the Privatisation Commission. The move aligns with broader efforts to reduce public sector financial burdens and attract strategic investors.
