Dairy Farmers Urged to Embrace Technology and Farm Mechanization to Improve Production

Agriculture Chief Administrative Secretary Dr. Andrew Tuimur urged dairy value chain participants to embrace technology, add value as well as mechanize their operations.

However, the unpredictable weather patterns, hiked prices for animal’s feed and supplements, and poor infrastructure remain a stumbling block for the industry’s growth.

According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, 5.2 billion litres of milk is produced in Kenya annually.

The country has been sourcing this product from Uganda and other neighboring states to meet demand.  As a result, dairy farmers being called to embrace new production methods to increase productivity and competitiveness.

Kenya milk consumers have been exposed to crafty dealers who engage in unlawful activities such as milk adulteration in a bid to meet the demand for dairy products. However, the vice might be addressed by the just-formed multi-agency committee by the Government to look into food security following NTV exposé on harmful chemicals in meat.

The dairy industry employs about 1 million people, with an average contribution of 4 percent to Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product.