The Embu’s Wakagoto Foundation has unveiled a major economic empowerment initiative targeting vulnerable women in Manyatta Constituency through a dairy farming program aimed at eradicating poverty at the grassroots.
Dubbed the “Inua Mama na Wakagoto Program,” the project seeks to distribute 1,000 high-quality Friesian dairy cows in its first year, with a long-term goal of reaching 10,000 beneficiaries across the county by 2030.
Under the foundation’s two core pillars — Empowerment and Sustainability — beneficiaries will not only receive dairy cows but also undergo comprehensive training on modern dairy farming practices to ensure proper animal care and sustainable income generation.
According to the foundation’s management, each beneficiary will sign an agreement requiring them to return the first calf after the cow’s initial birth.
The calf will then be passed on to another woman, creating a revolving model designed to expand the program’s reach organically.
The initiative will begin in Manyatta before being rolled out to other parts of the county by 2028.
The announcement, shared on the foundation’s Facebook page, sparked widespread reactions from residents, with many praising businessman Kenjava Wakagoto Mwaniki for what they termed as a practical and sustainable empowerment strategy.
In the comments section, Rojerz Justoh wrote that the initiative was “teaching people how to fish rather than giving them fish,” while Dfreh Ombach Deh described it as a “distinct and positive idea” and said poverty eradication was becoming a reality.
Mureti Kelvin, also commenting on Facebook, observed that the program would create a ripple effect in the local economy, benefiting veterinarians, boda boda operators, transporters and casual workers.
However, some Facebook users raised concerns about sustainability and infrastructure. James Macharia questioned where farmers would sell their milk, citing the lack of a milk cooling plant in the county.
Others urged the foundation to ensure inclusivity, calling for programs that also support the boy child.
Despite the mixed reactions, the majority of Facebook commenters lauded the initiative as a transformative step toward economic empowerment in Embu, expressing optimism that the dairy program could significantly improve livelihoods if effectively implemented.
What’s happening near you? Send us the story via
news@arisemediagroup.co.ke or WhatsApp 0750456085
Book Advert-use above contacts
49