Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma has pledged urgent intervention to revive Afya Millers, a farmer-owned cooperative struggling under the weight of debt and mismanagement. The mill, which produces maize and wheat flour for both human and animal consumption, has been on the brink of collapse, threatening livelihoods and food security in the county.
Speaking after touring the facility, Mutuma said his administration will engage the Meru County Assembly to secure budgetary support for cooperative revival initiatives. He also revealed plans to consult Members of Parliament and President William Ruto on possible debt restructuring or waivers to ease the mill’s financial burden.
Afya Millers traces its roots to the historic Meru Central Farmers Cooperative Union, which was restructured in 2005. It remains affiliated with the Meru Central Dairy Union, Meru Coffee Union, and Capital Sacco. Mutuma emphasized that this shared history demonstrates cooperatives are strongest when united and weakest when left to struggle alone.
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The governor disclosed that county officials from the Department of Trade had assessed the mill and recommended governance restructuring. In response, an interim 11-member board drawn from the Meru Coffee Union, Capital Sacco, and Meru Dairy Cooperative Union has been constituted to stabilize operations and chart a growth path.
To jumpstart production, the county government will supply the first batch of maize for milling, a move Mutuma said will restore market confidence, stabilize prices, and reassure farmers, workers, and consumers. “This intervention will ensure the mill transitions immediately from dormancy to productivity while long-term stabilisation measures take effect,” he stated.
Mutuma thanked staff for their patience during the difficult period and expressed optimism that Afya Millers will withstand economic turbulence. He described the cooperative as a vital agro-processing enterprise with potential to create jobs, enhance food security, and strengthen the local economy.
The governor also issued a stern warning to cartels and corrupt individuals attempting to interfere with the mill’s management, vowing that they would face arrest and prosecution. He was accompanied during the tour by nominated MCA Mwenda Kiirinya and Nyaki West MCA Kirimi Mubichi.
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Mutuma reiterated his commitment to supporting cooperatives across Meru, noting that many have collapsed or are on the verge of closure due to corruption, mismanagement, and land grabbing. He highlighted the success of the Mount Kenya Milk brand produced by the Meru Dairy Union as proof that farmer-owned enterprises can thrive with proper governance.
Looking ahead, the governor urged residents to take advantage of the LAPSSET Corridor to market their products nationally and regionally, positioning Meru cooperatives for access to international markets.
By John Majau
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