Dairy Board Says Milk Production to Increase from October as Supply Constraints Persist

The Kenya Dairy Board (KDB) anticipates an increase in milk production from October this year, as the country approaches the October-November-December (OND) rainfall season. This season is expected to enhance pasture and fodder availability in key milk-producing regions, according to the Board. The current decline in milk supply is primarily due to seasonal production conditions, including dry and cold weather that has impacted dairy farming across the nation.

Dr. William Maritim, KDB's Managing Director, stated in a September 1, 2026, press release that milk remains available in markets despite temporary supply constraints in certain areas.

Between June and July 2026, formal milk deliveries to processors experienced a 3.7% decrease, falling from 84.4 million litres in June to 81.3 million litres in July. Preliminary data for August suggests this trend may continue. Retail outlets have also reported reduced availability of certain milk brands and pack sizes. The KDB anticipates that the OND rainfall season will reverse this situation, improving pasture and fodder availability for dairy farmers and consequently boosting milk production.

The Board expects that the recovery in pasture and fodder conditions will lead to enhanced milk supply, offering relief to consumers and dairy processors who have faced supply constraints.

The KDB's market surveillance has identified varying degrees of milk supply constraints nationwide, reflected in low stock levels, reduced brand and pack size availability, and delayed replenishment in some retail outlets. Pasteurised milk has been more affected, whereas long-life milk products have remained relatively accessible.

Despite these challenges, retail milk prices have remained stable, although a few areas have seen price increases. The government is implementing interventions to bolster milk production and the dairy value chain, such as the distribution of milk coolers for better aggregation and preservation. Additionally, the government supports dairy herd improvement through subsidised sexed semen, measures aimed at increasing production and stabilizing milk supplies over time.

These efforts are intended to mitigate challenges faced by dairy farmers and enhance the efficiency of the milk value chain.

The KDB continues to monitor milk production, formal milk deliveries, market availability, and retail prices while collaborating with dairy industry stakeholders to maintain supply continuity. The Board emphasizes that the current supply situation is temporary and largely seasonal, with the October rains expected to play a crucial role in recovery.

KDB remains committed to supporting stability in milk supplies under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development's leadership. The KDB's latest update comes amid ongoing changes in milk product availability for consumers, with the authority assuring the public and industry stakeholders of the continued availability of milk in the market.