Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has revealed that President William Ruto's proposal to introduce buffalo milk production in Kenya has sparked an unexpected business rush at his Wamunyoro home. Youths are volunteering to supply him with milk from wild buffaloes in Mt Kenya Forest, which borders his home. They offer to venture into the forest to milk the buffaloes and sell the produce to his household. Gachagua shared this experience, highlighting the interest generated by the President's suggestion.
President Ruto floated the idea of exploring buffalo milk production to diversify Kenya's dairy sector and address milk shortages. He pointed to countries like India, where buffaloes are widely reared for dairy purposes. The President instructed the Principal Secretary for Livestock to explore introducing improved camel and buffalo breeds to increase milk production. This proposal came amid concerns over declining milk production due to prolonged drought, deteriorating pasture, and rising animal feed costs.
Buffalo milk is valued for its high fat and solids content, making it suitable for making cheese, butter, yoghurt, and ghee. It contains 7-8 per cent butterfat, compared to 3-4 per cent in cow's milk, and higher concentrations of protein and calcium. However, like other animal milk, it must be properly pasteurised to eliminate harmful bacteria before consumption. This nutritional profile makes buffalo milk a valuable addition to Kenya's dairy market.
Some youths who attempted to milk the buffaloes encountered trouble, getting kicked by the animals. One group even jokingly promised to ask the President if they could take milk from an elephant. Gachagua shared this anecdote, illustrating the enthusiasm and challenges faced by those interested in buffalo milk production. The Deputy President's account showcases the unexpected attention his home has received since the President's proposal.
The President also highlighted the commercial potential of camel milk, citing its higher retail price as an alternative source of income for livestock farmers. A litre of camel milk sells for Sh180, almost Sh200, triple the price of cow's milk. Ruto emphasised the need to diversify milk sources, especially during a milk shortage caused by drought. This diversification effort aims to boost Kenya's dairy sector.
Gachagua's experience at his Wamunyoro home demonstrates the interest generated by the President's proposal. The youths' willingness to venture into Mt Kenya Forest to milk buffaloes shows the potential for community involvement in buffalo milk production. However, proper regulations and safety measures must be put in place to ensure the production and consumption of safe and healthy milk.
The introduction of buffalo milk production in Kenya may provide new opportunities for dairy farmers and contribute to the country's milk production. With proper implementation and regulation, this initiative can help address milk shortages and provide an alternative source of income for farmers. The government's efforts to explore new dairy sources, including buffalo and camel milk, aim to boost the sector and ensure a stable milk supply.
Key points
- President Ruto's proposal to introduce buffalo milk production has sparked interest among youths.
Reporting sources
- The Star · The Star
