Dairy farmers call for collaboration to boost milk production

Dairy farmers in Kiambu County have urged both national and county governments to collaborate in improving the sector by providing quality dairy feeds and sexed semen. Joanne Atian'g, head of dairy sector in the State Department for Livestock, highlighted that farmers are struggling with poor genetics and substandard feeds. She revealed that the government is tackling these issues through various measures, including zero taxation on imported maize, which has helped reduce the cost of animal feeds.

Peris Wanjiru, Chairperson of Kiambaa Dairy Cooperative Society, emphasized that low-quality animal feeds have hindered milk production. He called on the government to assess the quality of concentrates used in feed manufacturing. Dr Annette Kanaipei added that aflatoxin contamination has emerged as a significant problem in Kiambu County due to inadequate handling of raw materials. She encouraged farmers to stay informed about developments in the dairy sector.

Dr Paul Mutugi, head of procurement and extensions services at Kiambu County, pointed out that maintaining milk quality standards is challenging due to the scarcity of cooling facilities. Farmers often have to travel long distances to access such services.