KDB pushes for better milk prices, farmer returns

KDB Chairperson Genesius Mugo said farmers continue to earn little despite investing heavily in dairy production. He emphasized the need for fair pricing across the value chain, warning that the current low farm gate prices are unsustainable.

“The time has come for farmers to earn what they truly deserve. We cannot keep encouraging them to invest in better practices while they continue to receive poor returns,” Mugo said.

Speaking during the launch of Kinangop Gold Yogurt by Kinangop Dairy Limited Mugo revealed that KDB has proposed the introduction of a minimum farm gate price to the Ministry of Agriculture. The proposal aims to cushion farmers against exploitation by brokers and ensure they earn consistently from their milk.

Mugo backed President William Ruto’s recent directive to New KCC to buy milk at no less than KSh50 per litre, saying it should be adopted across the industry.

 “We want KSh50 per litre to become the floor price. When farmers are well compensated, the entire value chain grows,” he said.

Kinangop Dairy CEO Samuel Macharia noted that the processor, which handles over 104,000 litres of milk daily, is committed to improving farmer livelihoods through timely payments and value addition. He said the newly launched yogurt is a product of three years of research and innovation aimed at meeting market demand and boosting farmer incomes.

“We pay farmers four times a month. This improves their cash flow and overall quality of life,” Macharia said.

Mugo further urged investments in livestock health and nationwide disease control to enable Kenya to meet international export standards. He said the country has the potential to export at least one billion litres of dairy products annually if quality and compliance improve.

Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha said his administration is investing in extension services, milk infrastructure, and subsidized artificial insemination to boost productivity and returns.

The Kinangop yogurt launch marks a step forward in enhancing competitiveness and ensuring farmers earn more from their efforts.