Cooperative societies across Uasin Gishu have been urged to embrace transparency, accountability, and good governance in their management to enhance sustainability and improve members’ livelihoods.

Speaking on Wednesday during the official commissioning of the Turmus Poultry Farmers Cooperative Society abattoir at Kimumu Bahati Market, Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea said transparency remains a key pillar in building strong and successful cooperative movements.

Kapkea noted that the facility was established through a partnership between Hand in Hand Eastern Africa and the County Government of Uasin Gishu, aimed at strengthening the poultry value chain and creating economic opportunities for local farmers.

He reaffirmed the county government’s commitment to working closely with development partners and organizations that support community-based economic entities, saying such collaborations are critical in empowering farmers and promoting agribusiness.

The Deputy Governor further stated that the county will continue partnering with Hand in Hand and other stakeholders to support cooperatives and producer groups through capacity building, market linkages, and value addition initiatives.

To enhance market access for poultry farmers, Kapkea revealed that the county government will engage various off-takers, including supermarkets, hotels, and other institutions, to provide reliable markets for poultry products and improve farmers’ incomes.

County Executive Committee Member for Trade and Cooperatives, Dr. Philip Chebunet, emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperative structures to ensure members fully benefit from government and partner-supported initiatives.

He added that the county administration remains committed to creating an enabling environment for cooperatives to thrive through policy support, training, and strategic partnerships geared towards economic empowerment.

Hand in Hand Eastern Africa Chief Executive Officer Albert Wambugu lauded the county government for its openness and commitment to partnerships that promote grassroots economic development.

Wambugu said the collaboration has enabled the successful implementation of projects that directly impact farmers and entrepreneurs, adding that the organization will continue supporting initiatives that foster enterprise growth, job creation, and sustainable livelihoods.

The newly commissioned abattoir, which is estimated to process at least 2,000 birds per day, is expected to improve poultry processing standards, enhance food safety, and open up new market opportunities for poultry farmers within Uasin Gishu and beyond.

Chief Officer for Finance Eliud Kipkorir, alongside various directors from the Departments of Trade, Cooperatives, Agriculture, and Livestock Development, attended the event.