Farmers in Kericho County have been urged to embrace dairy farming as a sustainable avenue for increasing milk production and improving household incomes.
The call was made during the launch of a new milk outlet by the Kabianga Farmers’ Co-operative Society (KFCS) in Kericho Town, a move expected to enhance market access and boost the dairy value chain in the region.
Speaking at the event, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Industrialization, Tourism, and Wildlife, John Cheruiyot, emphasized the County government’s commitment to supporting farmers through training, access to markets, and improved infrastructure.
Cheruiyot noted that dairy farming presents a key opportunity for smallholder farmers to attain economic stability while contributing to food security.
“I encourage our farmers to join co-operative societies such as KFCS so that they can benefit from collective bargaining power and access essential services such as quality animal feeds, veterinary care, and milk cooling facilities. As a county, we are committed to forming partnerships that empower local farmers and promote value addition in the agricultural sector,” Cheruiyot added.
Also present at the launch was the Chairperson of Kabianga Farmers’ Co-operative Society, Mike Koros, who commended the Kericho County Government for its consistent support of the cooperative.
Koros highlighted that the provision of essential equipment, such as milk coolers, sexed semen, a tractor for silage transportation, and grass choppers, has significantly enhanced the society’s productivity and operational efficiency.
He noted that the society currently boasts over 6,000 registered members, with a daily milk collection of approximately 15,000 liters from farmers across the region.
Koros further said the newly launched Kericho Town outlet becomes the sixth branch under the cooperative, a move necessitated by the increasing demand for processed dairy products in the area.
“We sell certified milk products, including fresh milk, fermented milk (mursik), and a variety of yoghurt flavours. Our products are approved by the Kenya Dairy Board, which confirms that our milk meets all safety and quality standards. We have invested in well-trained staff and have also equipped our farmers with knowledge on proper animal husbandry to ensure maximum production,” said Koros.
Kabianga Farmers’ Co-operative Society (KFCS) Manager Franklin Kipkirui revealed that the society provides a wide range of services to its members, including agro-veterinary support and Artificial Insemination aimed at improving livestock genetics.
Kipkirui added that the cooperative also facilitates access to financial services, such as loans and cash advances, which are backed by guarantees from partner financial institutions, ensuring that farmers could invest in and expand their dairy operations.
By Hillary Kemei
