Dairy Farmers Decry Low Milk Prices

Dairy farmers around the country are protesting declining milk prices offered by millers for their product. This is despite the large demand in the country with retail outlets experiencing low supply. They blame greedy milk processing firms as their milk is bought for amounts as low as Ksh24 per liter.

The farmers point out that they spend heavily on animal feeds in the dry season, yet their returns are low. They are advocating for the adoption price regulation by the Ministry of Agriculture. They expect to get better prices for their milk seeing as production has dropped owing to the persisting drought in the country.

The farmers observe that the move to make East African markets liberalized has been detrimental to them getting value for their money. They find it disheartening that no one has taken the step to cushion them from exploitation.

One farmer said that importation of milk from other countries has impaired the dairy sector. He also noted that there should be the establishment of a policy to address the various issues affecting dairy farmers.

The dairy farmers call to attention the need for the government to introduce subsidies on animal feeds since the drought makes it difficult for them to maintain dairy cows. They also outline several ways in which the government can be of help to them. They include empowerment of cooperative societies and hiring of extension officers at the grassroots level.

The cooperatives will enable farmers to enjoy significant economies of scale in the purchase of inputs such as animal feeds. Extension officers will be beneficial to the farmers as they will be trained on animal husbandry and feed preparation.