State deploys 13 milk coolers to cut dairy losses in Kirinyaga

DAVID WANDETO-KNA

More than 17,500 dairy farmers in Kirinyaga County are set to benefit from improved milk preservation, reduced post-harvest losses, and higher earnings following the distribution of 13 bulk milk coolers worth Sh90 million by the national government.

The milk coolers, which have a combined daily storage capacity of 35,000 litres, are expected to strengthen the dairy value chain by improving milk quality, enhancing storage capacity, and enabling cooperative societies to access better markets.

Speaking during the handover ceremony in Kirinyaga County, Principal Secretary for Livestock Development Jonathan Mueke said the investment demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting dairy farmers through modern infrastructure aimed at increasing productivity and profitability. 

Mueke said the project was implemented following a request made by Governor Anne Waiguru to President William Ruto during the President’s recent development tour of the county.

He noted that inadequate milk storage facilities have for years contributed to significant post-harvest losses, forcing farmers to dispose of spoiled milk or sell it at low prices.

“The milk coolers will enable cooperative societies to preserve milk for longer periods, improve product quality and negotiate better prices through collective marketing,” he said.

The Principal Secretary urged farmers to embrace the Quality Based Milk Payment System, explaining that the programme rewards producers who deliver clean, hygienically handled and high-quality milk.

He said farmers currently earning an average of Sh43 per litre could receive up to Sh60 per litre under the quality-based payment model.