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A worrying situation is unfolding in Kenya’s dairy sector, with Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba warning that milk production has dropped sharply as farmers struggle with rising costs and poor-quality animal feeds. Read Full Article Here
Wamuchomba, who described herself as a representative of farmers in Parliament, said milk collection in Githunguri has fallen from about 175,000 litres per day to 140,000 litres.
She rejected the government’s explanation that a shortage of fodder is the main cause, arguing that the bigger problem is the high cost of production.
According to the MP, animal feed prices have remained high despite measures contained in the Finance Bill 2026 aimed at removing VAT from raw materials.
She claimed many manufacturers failed to reduce their prices, leaving farmers with little incentive to continue with dairy farming.
Wamuchomba also raised concerns about the quality of animal feeds, alleging that some farmers are being sold counterfeit products containing substances such as sand and ash.
She argued that such products increase costs while doing little to improve milk production.
The legislator called for stronger quality controls, proper monitoring of feed manufacturers and greater enforcement by relevant government agencies.
She also proposed that manufacturers disclose wholesale prices to the Kenya Revenue Authority to improve price monitoring.
Wamuchomba further called for tighter regulation of livestock health services, saying farmers face high veterinary costs and inconsistent standards in animal medication.
She warned that even improved rains may not immediately restore milk production unless the government tackles counterfeit feeds and high production costs.
She also revealed that she has proposed power subsidies for agricultural producers as another way of easing pressure on farmers.
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