Kenya has emerged as the leading exporter of processed milk in Africa, with a significant increase in milk production to 5.2 billion litres. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki announced this achievement, highlighting the country's growth in dairy products from Sh4.9 billion to Sh8.9 billion. The government's interventions aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and farmer profitability have contributed to this success. Kindiki made the announcement at the Agriculture and Food Security Transformation Summit in Nairobi.
The increase in milk production is attributed to various government initiatives, including a guaranteed minimum return for milk raised from Sh37 to Sh50 per litre. This move aims to make dairy farming more predictable and profitable for farmers. Kindiki emphasized the need for clearer cost structures, reliable market access, and transparent income expectations for farmers to sustain growth. These factors are crucial for the continued development of the dairy sector.
Kenya's agricultural reforms have also led to a significant expansion of the farmer registry, now covering 7.2 million crop farmers and three million livestock keepers, up from roughly 300,000 four years ago. The government has implemented measures to reduce key input costs, such as fertilizer prices dropping from Sh7,000 to Sh2,000 per bag. Certified maize seed prices have halved from Sh300 to Sh150 per kilogram, supporting farmers.
The cost of sexed semen for artificial insemination of dairy cows has decreased from Sh8,000 to Sh1,400 per dose, promoting higher productivity in the sector. Vaccination efforts have reached 8.9 million cattle under a programme targeting 22 million cattle and 50 million small stock. This initiative aims to reinforce animal health and output, contributing to the growth of the dairy industry.
In addition to the dairy sector's growth, the value of meat exports has increased from Sh8.9 billion to Sh12.9 billion. The government has completed 17 County Aggregation and Industrial Parks to bolster agro-processing. These developments demonstrate the country's efforts to enhance its agricultural productivity and expand its export market.
The Agriculture and Food Security Transformation Summit, where Kindiki made the announcement, highlights the government's commitment to transforming the agricultural sector. The summit, held at Jamhuri Park ASK Showground in Nairobi, brings together stakeholders to discuss strategies for improving food security and agricultural productivity. The government's initiatives aim to make agriculture a more profitable and sustainable sector.
Kenya's achievement as the leading exporter of processed milk in Africa demonstrates the country's potential for growth in the dairy sector. With continued government support and investment in agricultural reforms, Kenya is likely to maintain its position as a top producer and exporter of dairy products in Africa. The country's progress in the dairy sector serves as a model for other African nations seeking to develop their agricultural industries.
Key points
- Kenya's milk production has increased to 5.2 billion litres, making it Africa's top processed milk exporter.
- The government has implemented measures to reduce key input costs, such as fertilizer prices and certified maize seed prices.
- The value of meat exports has increased from Sh8.9 billion to Sh12.9 billion, demonstrating the country's growth in the agricultural sector.
