By Esther Chesoro.
Migori dairy farmers are benefitting from 150 dairy cows donated by the County Government in a bid to increase milk production in the County and improve food security.
In February last year the County Government, through the Department of Livestock Development, purchased 150 cows for farmers in seven sub counties.
According to Migori Governor Okoth Obando, the initiative will be in phases and the second phase begins this January and February to benefit another set of 150 farmers.
County Livestock Development Director, Jackline Magero says the project will benefit many poor farmers across the County. The cows have been distributed equally among the seven sub counties to ensure that at least every farmer benefits.
“The farmers from each Ward are divided into clusters each of 10 and given cows”.
However, Nyatike Sub-County has been left out owing to the poor climatic conditions unfavourable for dairy farming. There are plans to purchase 50 Zebu bulls towards upgrading of indigenous animals for better milk production.
The cows produce between 10- 30 litres of milk daily which is sold at local markets. The milk proceeds have enabled the farmers to pay school fees, save and access loans.
Suba West Livetock Production Officer Jared Magolo and Livestock Extension Officer Faith Ogutu say they train and give technical advice to the farmers and offer veterinary services for sick animals. The County also offers and gives deworming drugs and for ticks.
Ogutu said there are plans for the farmers to form Cooperatives.
The project targets 30,000 litres of milk daily that will feed all Early Childhood Development Education pupils. Migori Governor wants his County to be a leading milk producer among Nyanza counties.
