Machakos County has taken a bold step in cementing its position as a hub of agro-industrial growth, with Athi River rapidly emerging as a strategic centre for investment and industrial expansion.

H.E. Governor Wavinya Ndeti presided over the official launch of the De Heus Kenya Outlet and Animal Feed Production Plant in Athi River, in a ceremony that underscored her administration’s commitment to modernizing agriculture and attracting high-impact investments.

The event was also graced by the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Mutahi Kagwe, and the Principal Secretary, State Department for Livestock Development, Jonathan Mueke, highlighting the strong collaboration between the national and county governments in advancing the livestock sector.

Speaking during the launch, Governor Wavinya said the establishment of the plant marks a significant milestone in strengthening the livestock value chain and promoting agribusiness within Machakos and the larger region.

She noted that her administration remains deliberate in creating an enabling environment for investors, positioning Machakos as “The Place to Invest.” The governor emphasized that the county government will continue to champion partnerships that empower wananchi, modernize agriculture, and unlock sustainable economic growth.

The De Heus investment is expected to increase employment opportunities from 85 to 250 jobs, directly impacting hundreds of households. The expansion is particularly significant for the youth, who stand to benefit from meaningful income opportunities and skills development.

Beyond job creation, the facility will provide farmers with high-quality animal feeds, enhancing livestock productivity and strengthening value chains across the county. It will also offer training and capacity-building programmes aimed at equipping farmers with modern knowledge and best practices in animal husbandry.

Governor Wavinya reiterated that agriculture remains a key pillar of her development agenda, adding that strategic investments such as the De Heus plant are crucial in transforming livelihoods and driving inclusive economic growth.

With Athi River steadily attracting major industrial players, Machakos County continues to rise as a preferred destination for agro-industrial expansion—an achievement strongly anchored in Governor Wavinya Ndeti’s visionary and investor-friendly leadership.

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