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President William Ruto has proposed exploring buffalo milk production and sourcing higher-yielding camels as Kenya seeks ways to increase dairy supply following a shortage blamed partly on drought.
The President said Livestock Development Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke had been instructed to identify suitable breeds that could help raise milk output and potentially ease pressure on consumers.
India’s Buffalo Milk Model Attracts Government Interest
Ruto said Kenya would investigate whether buffalo farming could become a viable addition to the country’s dairy industry, citing India as an example of a country where buffalo milk is consumed.
He explained that the government intended to start with small samples before assessing the feasibility of introducing buffalo milk production locally.
The proposal signals interest in diversifying milk sources beyond conventional dairy cattle, although its practical benefits will depend on the availability of suitable breeds, production costs and consumer acceptance.
Improved Camels Could Lower Milk Prices
The government is also considering better-performing camel breeds to increase production and make camel milk more affordable.
Ruto noted that camel milk was selling at approximately KSh180 per litre, a price he said was significantly higher than that of cow’s milk.
He argued that increasing output through improved breeds could help bring down prices, though the extent of any reduction would depend on the costs of breeding, feeding, processing and distribution.
President Cites Rising National Production
Ruto maintained that Kenya had recorded growth in milk production, which he said had risen from 4.5 billion litres to 5.5 billion litres.
He described Kenya as Africa’s largest milk producer and consumer while crediting agricultural reforms and investment for progress in the sector.
The President also outlined plans to construct large, medium and small dams using funds from the National Infrastructure Fund, with the government targeting 2.5 million acres under irrigation.
The proposed projects are intended to strengthen agricultural production and improve resilience against drought, while the search for alternative dairy breeds is expected to be assessed for its potential contribution to the country’s milk supply.
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