Milk processors ask retailers to hold prices amid shortage
Milk processors are calling on retailers across the country not to take advantage of the current milk shortage to increase prices and exploit consumers. The processors say milk sold in shops and supermarkets should continue retailing at between Ksh.55 and Ksh.60 per litre, despite the challenges being experienced in the dairy sector. The Chairperson of […] The post Milk processors ask retailers…
Milk processors are urging retailers not to capitalize on the current milk shortage by raising prices, claiming consumers should continue paying between Ksh.55 and Ksh.60 per liter. Kenneth Gitonga, chairman of Dairy Processors in Kenya and CEO of Meru Dairy Cooperative Union, warns against price gouging during a time when many households are already suffering from higher living costs.
The shortage is largely due to prolonged drought, which has impacted dairy farmers, reduced animal feed and water, and thus milk production. Gitonga expects the situation to improve with the arrival of El Niño rains, projecting that milk supplies will stabilize by the end of October, assuming the rains are adequate and farmers can restore pasture and access to fodder for their livestock.
He advises consumers against panic buying, urging them to purchase only what they need to maintain supply circulation. The dairy processors are also appealing to farmers to utilize the expected rains to boost fodder production and rebuild their herds, which could enhance milk production in the coming months. Gitonga emphasizes the importance of collaboration among farmers, processors, retailers, and consumers to ensure stability in the dairy sector and avoid unnecessary price hikes.
Written by urgent.news from KBC's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
