Dairy farmers decry delayed milk payment by N-KCC

Dairy farmers in Murang'a have been complaining about delayed milk payments from cooperative societies, forcing them to sell their milk to private companies. This issue has been highlighted as the sector faces challenges due to the government's attempts to stabilize the milk industry and reduce the costs associated with dairy production.

Farmers affiliated with the New Kenya Cooperative Creameries Corporation (N-KCC) revealed that the cooperative had not paid for milk delivered over the past three months, compelling them to seek alternative buyers. David Kirika Mwangi, a dairy farmer, stated that he sold his milk privately due to the low and delayed payments from cooperatives, emphasizing that such practices negatively impact production as farmers must continuously feed their cows.

He called for government intervention, particularly focusing on subsidizing the cost of raw materials used in animal feeds, as higher prices hinder the production of affordable feed like maize germ and dairy meal. Samuel Kimotho, another farmer, echoed Mwangi's sentiments, adding that the volatility in milk prices and delayed payments have led him to sell milk privately.

He also emphasized the importance of timely payments and raw material subsidies to motivate dairy farmers. Kangema Member of Parliament Peter Kihungi, during the Deputy President's tour of Murang'a, demanded immediate payment of outstanding debts to farmers by N-KCC. He stressed that delayed payments have severely affected the livelihoods of farmers in the Mt.

Kenya region, pushing some to opt for private companies. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki promised the government's commitment to streamline the sector to ensure timely payments, making sexed semen technology available at a subsidized rate to boost dairy production.