Dairy farmers across Kenya have received a major boost following the government’s announcement to lower the cost of sexed semen from Ksh.4,000 to Ksh.1,000 starting July 2025. This move, President William Ruto said, is aimed at enhancing productivity and improving the quality of dairy breeds.
Speaking during the 10th Meru Cooperative Union Dairy Annual Farmers Field Day in Meru County, President Ruto emphasized the government’s commitment to lowering the cost of production in the dairy sector. As a transitional measure, from next month, farmers will pay Ksh.1,400 for sexed semen.
In a bid to further support the sector, President Ruto revealed that the government has procured 230 milk coolers to ensure milk quality and boost farmers’ earnings. Of these, 15 will be distributed in Meru County. “Milk coolers are crucial in maintaining quality by inhibiting bacterial growth and extending shelf life,” he said.
The President also announced that the construction of an animal feed factory under the Meru Dairy processor was complete, with installation of equipment expected by year-end. To support this, the government will provide an additional Ksh.100 million to complete the factory infrastructure, following a similar amount allocated last year.
To ensure livestock health, Ruto directed that the ongoing national animal vaccination campaign be extended to Meru County.
He highlighted the sector’s growth, noting that the annual value of milk production rose from Ksh.40 billion in 2022 to Ksh.59 billion in 2023. Consequently, farm-gate milk prices have increased from Ksh.35 to Ksh.53 per litre.
Flanked by top government officials and legislators, President Ruto reiterated his administration’s focus on transforming livelihoods, dismissing critics who lack alternative development plans.
Cooperatives and MSMEs Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya called on dairy cooperatives to form strategic partnerships to protect farmers’ interests. Meru Central Dairy Cooperative CEO Kenneth Gitonga noted that their 146,000 members produce 620,000 litres of milk daily and aim to increase production for both domestic use and export.
