Aflatoxin alert: CS Kagwe links feed quality to export viability

KENYA – The Agriculture Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mutahi Kagwe has warned that there will be no exports of dairy products if farmers give animals feeds that have aflatoxin.

Speaking at the official opening of the 17th African Dairy Conference and Exhibition (AFDA17) at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Kagwe warned that contaminated feeds are directly undermining Kenya’s export ambitions.

“No export without quality. Aflatoxin in maize feeds passes straight into milk and locks us out of lucrative markets. If we are serious about doubling production and exporting, we must fix feed quality first,” he said.

Kagwe urged feed manufacturers and farmers to adopt Aflasafe, a proven biological product that suppresses aflatoxin in maize, to guarantee the best milk quality for Kenyans.

He further announced that the government will soon launch a Good Quality Milk certification programme, to set a benchmark for hygiene and safety.

Farmers delivering high-quality milk will earn premium payments, while those supplying substandard produce will no longer be paid the same.

“We must all produce good quality milk, and the farmer must be recognised for doing the right thing. It cannot be the same amount for bad and good,” he added.

According to the ministry, Kenya produced 5.3 billion litres of milk in 2024, and aims to double it to 10 billion litres within the next few years.

To achieve this, Kagwe noted, tackling aflatoxin, reducing feed costs, improving cattle breeds, and incentivising farmers for quality will be important.

He challenged African nations to exchange best practices and harmonise standards under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), saying Africa cannot continue importing milk powders while sitting on vast potential.

17th African Dairy Conference and Exhibition (AFDA17)

The 17th African Dairy Conference and Exhibition (AFDA17), hosted from September 30th to October 2nd at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, Kenya, brings together key players from across the continent’s dairy value chain.

AFDA17 serves as a dynamic platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, showcase innovations, and explore opportunities for growth and sustainability in the sector.

This year’s conference features a robust lineup of activities, including expert-led panels, technical workshops, and a bustling exhibition floor with over 50 exhibitors displaying cutting-edge dairy technologies, equipment, and services.

Delegates from more than 35 countries are in attendance, representing dairy farmers, processors, policymakers, researchers, and investors—all united by a shared commitment to advancing Africa’s dairy industry.

With themes centred around climate resilience, food safety, and market access, the event emphasises the need for collaboration and innovation to overcome challenges facing the sector.

From networking sessions to field visits, AFDA17 offers a comprehensive experience that empowers participants to drive transformation and unlock the full potential of dairy across Africa.

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