A government-led goat auction at Ishiara Market in Embu County has sparked mixed reactions after reports emerged that hundreds of animals remained unsold, leaving farmers frustrated.
While many farmers described the event as a disappointment, government officials have defended it as a success disrupted only by poor weather.
“Out of about 4,900 Goats that were presented by farmers at Ishiara Market for auction, more than 4,700 were sold out,” shared Mithamo Muchiri, a government supporter.
“It is true that about 200 goats did not get buyers. Obviously, because of the heavy rain that disrupted a lot of activities,” he added.
As seen by The Kenya Times in a video shared online, the frustrated and mud-stained Embu residents are seen wading in the mud with their goats.
Embu Farmers Decry “Token” Purchases
According to the local media outlets in Embu, farmers who had flocked to the market at dawn said they were left stranded after government buyers allegedly failed to honour earlier promises of fair prices and bulk purchases.
Reportedly, some received as little as KSh 1,000 per goat after spending the entire day under the scorching sun, followed by heavy afternoon rains.
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The failed auction has sparked outrage among farmers, who feel the government’s efforts were insufficient.
By evening, many farmers, drenched and exhausted, began trekking home with their unsold livestock.
Government Officials Blame Heavy Rains
However, government officials and organisers have dismissed claims of failure, insisting that the auction was largely successful.
According to unverified figures shared by the government supporter, approximately 4,700 of the 4,900 goats presented were sold, representing a 95.9% success rate.
They attributed the few unsold goats, approximately 200, to the heavy rains that disrupted trade and forced some buyers to leave early.
Also Read: Embu County Announces Internships for Fresh Degree, Diploma Holders
Embu Dairy Farmers Benefit from 13 New Milk Coolers
Additionally, on Saturday, November 8, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe flagged off 13 milk coolers to dairy farmer groups in Runyenjes and Manyatta, Embu County, at an event hosted by Governor Cecily Mbarire.
Installed for KSh77.93 million, the milk coolers will benefit over 3,900 farmers, enabling aggregation of 25,000L of milk per day, valued at KSh1.125 million daily, and translating to 9.12 million litres annually, worth KSh410.6 million.
“By improving milk storage and quality, farmers can now venture into value addition, producing milk powder and other dairy products for sale, both locally and in export markets,” Kagwe said.
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