Farmers Protest Against Machakos County’s New Chicken Movement Fee


Poultry farmers from surrounding counties have voiced their anger regarding Machakos County’s decision to implement a charge on the transportation of chickens into the county.

  The newly introduced fee, established under the county’s recent Finance Bill, mandates that poultry farmers pay Sh20 for each chicken brought into the devolved area. Farmers argue that this action will raise production costs, ultimately impacting consumers and jeopardizing the sustainability of their enterprises. Daniel Kisuu, a poultry farmer from Kajiado County who supplies hotels and restaurants in Machakos, expressed his concerns during a protest that took place earlier this week. “This new fee is punitive and will compel many of us to close our farms. The expense will be transferred to consumers, rendering chicken products unaffordable for many,” he stated. The Finance Bill was approved by the Machakos County Assembly last month as part of initiatives to enhance local revenue. According to the county government, the fee is intended to regulate the movement of poultry and ensure compliance with food safety standards. However, farmers contend that the policy was implemented without sufficient consultation and will disproportionately impact those who depend on cross-county trade. “We recognize the necessity for regulation, but this fee is excessive and unjust. Most poultry farmers in neighboring counties such as Kajiado, Kitui, and Makueni rely on Machakos as a key market. This charge will not only diminish our profits but also raise prices for consumers who are already facing increasing food costs,” Kisuu remarked. The protest witnessed dozens of poultry farmers assembling outside Machakos County offices, demanding the immediate repeal of the new fee. They cautioned that ongoing enforcement could result in job losses and a decreased supply of poultry products in the area. Local traders and consumers have also raised concerns regarding the potential effects on pricing.

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