Kenya targets milk loss reduction with nationwide cooler distribution

KENYA -The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development will begin distributing over 230 milk coolers across 41 counties in January 2025, a move aimed at reducing milk losses and boosting farmers’ incomes.

The initiative, spearheaded by the State Department for Livestock Development, underscores the government’s strategic efforts to enhance milk production and commercialize the dairy sector.

According to Jonathan Mueke, the Principal Secretary for Livestock Development, the coolers, which are currently being manufactured, will address critical challenges in milk storage and handling, particularly in high-producing counties.

Mueke explained that the coolers come in various sizes, including capacities of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 litres, enabling cooperatives and farmers to store milk more efficiently.

“Out of the 5.2 billion litres of milk we produce annually, about 811 million litres are formally marketed through processors. This project is expected to add another 400 million litres to the market, representing a 50 percent increase in processed milk,” noted Mueke during a media address in Nairobi.

The government’s milk cooler initiative aligns with its broader agenda to improve the livelihoods of dairy farmers while strengthening Kenya’s competitive edge in the global dairy industry.

As reported by the Principal Secretary, 544 milk cooler installation sites have been identified in collaboration with county governments, with 427 already verified. Of these, 285 sites are fully prepared for cooler installations.

The dairy sector’s growth remains a priority as Kenya explores opportunities in international markets. Mueke emphasized that quality and safety standards are pivotal for market access, particularly in Europe, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

These markets have recently been unlocked through key trade agreements, including the Economic Partnership Agreement with Europe, the Strategic Partnership and Investment Programme with the U.S., and the Comprehensive Economic Trade Partnership with the UAE.

“President William Ruto has been instrumental in securing these opportunities, and we must ensure that our dairy products meet global standards to push through these markets,” Mueke remarked.

The distribution of milk coolers reflects a larger government strategy to modernize the agricultural sector and tackle post-harvest losses, which have been a persistent issue for dairy farmers.

By introducing proper milk storage infrastructure, the initiative is poised to bridge gaps in the value chain, enhance product quality, and increase farmers’ bargaining power in the market.

Mueke further highlighted ongoing efforts to commercialize the livestock sector, including the National Vaccination Programme, which aims to ensure food safety and improve trade standards.

He stressed that vaccines will be produced locally by the Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute (KEVEVAPI), reinforcing the government’s commitment to self-sufficiency and safe livestock products.