In a decisive move aimed at revitalizing Kenya’s dairy industry, President William Ruto has unveiled a bold vision to double the nation’s milk production over the next five years. The announcement, made during a momentous event in Kiganjo, Nyeri County, signals a resolute commitment to elevate local farmers’ livelihoods while propelling Kenya to the forefront of global milk production.
President Ruto’s steadfast determination to shield local farmers from the grip of unlawful milk importers underscores his dedication to overhauling the sector. “Our aim is to eliminate brokers from the market and safeguard our farmers against the illicit influx of foreign milk,” Ruto stated. This assertive stance, widely interpreted as a veiled critique of domestic milk processing entities, underscores Ruto’s unwavering focus on prioritizing farmers’ interests.
With Kenya’s dairy industry already contributing a substantial KSh 200 billion to the national economy annually, President Ruto envisions even greater economic possibilities through a robust milk production surge. To realize this transformative goal, he has initiated a series of strategic measures.
Central to the plan is the modernization of Kenya Cooperative Creameries (KCC) facilities, a crucial step toward augmenting milk processing capabilities. Complementing this initiative is the widespread installation of milk coolers across the country, enhancing the capacity to process surplus milk and create value-added products. Ruto envisions a future where Kenyan farmers tap into lucrative markets for powdered and long-life milk, moving beyond the raw milk paradigm.
“We are determined to extract greater value from milk production. Our farmers have the potential to thrive by venturing into value-added milk products,” emphasized President Ruto. By aligning policy reforms with the best interests of farmers, Ruto aims to usher in a new era of prosperity for the dairy sector.
Beyond this, President Ruto has unveiled plans to abolish taxes on imported animal feeds and reduce breeding costs, offering a significant reprieve for farmers. Additionally, the distribution of 650 milk coolers before December, at a cost of Sh8 billion, promises to optimize milk preservation processes and provide accessible solutions for farmers.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua affirmed the government’s unwavering dedication to shielding dairy farmers from exploitation. “In September, we will convene a conference to address the challenges facing our dairy farmers,” Gachagua assured.
Governor Abdi Guyo lauded the inauguration of the camel milk processing line at KCC Kiganjo as a transformative milestone set to positively impact Northern Kenya’s residents.
As President Ruto’s comprehensive strategy takes root, Kenya’s dairy industry stands on the cusp of an unprecedented era of growth and prosperity. With farmers squarely at the heart of this initiative, Kenya inches closer to realizing its vision of becoming a global dairy powerhouse.
August 8, 2023
Delino Gayweh
Serrari Financial Analyst
photo source Google
