Embu, Kenya — Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Sen. Mutahi Kagwe has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Kenya’s dairy value chain through investment in infrastructure, modern equipment, and cooperative capacity building.

Speaking in Embu County during the flagging off of 13 new milk coolers for local dairy cooperatives, the CS said the initiative will help reduce post-harvest losses, stabilize farmer incomes, and enhance milk quality for both domestic and export markets.

“This investment reflects our commitment to empower farmers and modernize the dairy sector,” said Kagwe. “We want to transform milk aggregation centres into vibrant business hubs that create jobs and sustain rural economies.”

The 13 milk coolers, installed at a total cost of KSh 77.93 million, are expected to serve over 3,900 dairy farmers and aggregate approximately 25,000 litres of milk per day — valued at KSh 1.125 million daily. This translates to about 9.12 million litres annually, worth KSh 410.6 million.

Kagwe noted that the coolers will support the government’s broader agenda to enhance milk handling efficiency, promote cooperative-driven enterprise, and ensure farmers get better returns for their produce.

“Our goal is to make dairy farming a reliable and profitable venture. By improving storage and market access, we are ensuring that no litre of milk goes to waste and that farmers earn more from their hard work,” he said.

The CS further emphasized that the government is prioritizing climate-resilient livestock systems, affordable credit for dairy cooperatives, and market linkages with processors and value-added enterprises to sustain growth in the sector.

“We are working to build a dairy industry that is competitive, inclusive, and globally recognized for quality,” he added.

The event was attended by Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke, Embu Governor Hon. Cecily Mbarire, Kenya Dairy Board Chairperson, and Runyenjes MP Eric Muchangi.

Kenya Dairy Board National Chairman Genesio Mugo lauded the project, describing it as “a phenomenal milestone in strengthening dairy infrastructure.”

“Under the Board’s renewed strategic direction, we have witnessed exponential growth in milk production, value addition, and market confidence. These new coolers will go a long way in transforming dairy cooperatives into commercial hubs,” said Mugo.

The project is part of the government’s broader plan to equip all major dairy-producing counties with modern cold chain infrastructure, improve farmer earnings, and position Kenya as a leader in sustainable dairy production in Africa.