Kenya has taken a significant step toward transforming its livestock sector with the commissioning of Africa’s largest animal feed manufacturing facility in Athi River, Machakos County.

The KSh 3 billion plant, established by De Heus Animal Nutrition, was officially launched in February 2026 by Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe. The milestone project is part of the government’s broader strategy to double national milk production, improve feed standards, and position Kenya as a regional powerhouse in livestock production.

Speaking during the launch, Kagwe emphasized that the commissioning marks more than just the opening of a factory.

“Today it’s not just about commissioning a factory, it’s about changing and transforming Kenya’s livestock sector,” he said.

He noted that the transformation will be driven by increasing livestock numbers, improving efficiency, and enhancing access to quality animal nutrition. The government has set an ambitious target of doubling annual milk production from 5.2 billion litres to 10 billion litres.

Kagwe underscored that the future of Kenya’s dairy and meat industries lies in efficiency, improved genetics, better nutrition, and access to high-quality feed. To support this vision, the government will strengthen enforcement measures and introduce a feed quality index aimed at protecting farmers from substandard products.

He added that Kenya’s ambitions to access export markets for milk powder, meat, and live animals will depend heavily on maintaining strict feed standards and improving overall animal health.

Company officials from De Heus Animal Nutrition said the Athi River facility will focus exclusively on animal nutrition while also providing farmers with technical support, advisory services, and knowledge transfer to boost productivity. The company operates over 100 facilities globally and produces approximately 10 million tonnes of animal feed annually.

The project aligns with ongoing government reforms aimed at strengthening feed security and reducing reliance on imported raw materials.

Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti welcomed the investment, describing it as a major boost to agro-industrial growth and youth employment in the region.

The launch also highlighted strong international cooperation, with the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands noting the importance of partnerships in advancing agricultural development.

Stakeholders say facilities of this scale are expected to create employment opportunities, stimulate demand for local raw materials, empower youth in agribusiness, strengthen rural economies, and enhance investor confidence in Kenya’s agricultural sector.

The commissioning of the Athi River plant marks a pivotal moment in Kenya’s journey toward achieving sustainable livestock production and becoming a key exporter in the regional and global market.