Livestock traders in Garissa have demanded the Kenya Meat Commission (KMC) settle Ksh 195 million in outstanding payments to suppliers, warning that unresolved debts could jeopardize the agency's privatization process outlined in 2019.
The dispute involves KMC's total unpaid obligations of Ksh 490 million, including Ksh 195 million to livestock providers, Ksh 82 million to other vendors, and Ksh 214 million in statutory and off-take program liabilities. Traders claim delayed payments have damaged trust, with some farmers refusing to supply animals due to financial risks.
KMC Chairman Dubat Amey accused officials of mismanagement and corruption, stating, "Where did all the money that KMC gets from the slaughter of the animals go to if not to the pockets of greedy and corrupt government officials?" He emphasized that privatization is not the priority, noting Garissa traders alone are owed over Ksh 100 million.
Despite challenges, KMC secured Ksh 1 billion in customer contracts that could stabilize cash flows if fulfilled. The report urged the Ministry of Agriculture to intervene, stressing that resolving outstanding bills is critical to restoring confidence in the parastatal.
