Gov’t to distribute 230 milk coolers to Cooperatives to enhance milk preservation, Ruto reveals

President William Samoei Ruto has said the government will distribute 230 milk coolers nationwide to enhance milk preservation.

Ruto who was speaking on Saturday during the 10th Annual Dairy Farmers Field Day at the ASK Showground in Meru County where he flagged off milk coolers destined for various dairy cooperatives  called on County Governments to facilitate this initiative by constructing appropriate storage facilities for the equipment.

Ruto commended the Meru Central Cooperative Union Limited for its leadership in Kenya’s milk processing industry, applauding both the Union and the farmers for their outstanding achievements.

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The head of state who was accompanied by Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki encouraged all dairy cooperatives to fairly compensate farmers, highlighting Meru Central Cooperative as a model, which currently pays its members Ksh 53 per litre. Kenya’s milk production earnings have grown from Ksh 40 billion in 2022 to Ksh 59 billion in 2024.

Ruto also announced that milk processors will now be allowed to import yellow maize tax-free to supplement locally produced animal feed, a move expected to lower feed costs.

Addressing livestock health, the President directed the State Department of Livestock to urgently roll out a national vaccination campaign targeting mastitis, foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), and lumpy skin disease, with Meru County as the starting point.

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In support of improved veterinary and genetics services Ruto announced that the price of sexed semen for livestock will be reduced from Ksh 2,900 to Ksh 1,000 effective January 1, 2025. He urged farmers to embrace sexed semen technologies to maximize their dairy yields.

The government is committed to bolstering the leather industry, meat processing, and exports to further boost farmers’ incomes in the country.

By Obegi Malack

obegimalack@gmail.com

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