Kirinyaga Dairy Farmers Receive Boost from Expanded Cooling Facilities

Dairy farmers in Kirinyaga County have received a significant boost thanks to the expansion of milk cooling facilities to the grassroots level. Governor Anne Waiguru's initiative has led to the provision of milk coolers and back-up power generators to cooperatives and producer organizations.

This has resulted in higher milk volumes, reduced losses, and a growing number of farmers joining the dairy sector. The coolers have helped reduce post-harvest losses, improve milk quality, and enhance farmers' earnings.

Impact on Local Farmers

At the New Ngariama Farmers' Cooperative Society, the number of farmers supplying milk has risen from 400 to over 600, with daily milk collection increasing from 2,000 liters to over 7,000 liters. The cooperative has also seen an increase in employment, with milk collectors rising from four to 10.

Individual farmers have also seen an increase in production, with some reporting a rise from five liters to over 40 liters per day. The improved storage facility has created a reliable market for their milk, leading to increased household income for many farmers.