BY ANGELA R. KIURA
Over 15,000 smallholder dairy farmers in Kenya’s Eastern region have received a major economic lift following the disbursement of Sh33 million to 20 agricultural producer cooperatives in Meru, Tharaka Nithi, and Embu counties.
The grant, channeled through AVSI Foundation and E4Impact Foundation, is part of a broader post-COVID-19 recovery effort aimed at improving milk production, streamlining cooperative operations, and raising farmer incomes.
Speaking during the cheque issuance in Embu town, Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire confirmed that four cooperatives in the county received Sh7.1 million to enhance their operations.
“The support is aimed at strengthening the milk value chain through strategic investments such as milk aggregation centers and acquisition of milk coolers,” she said.
Among the Embu-based beneficiaries are Wang’ombe Community-Based Organization, Kathande, Kirurumwe, and Kawanjara Dairy Cooperatives.
In Meru County, Ankamia Dairy Cooperative Society Chairperson Regina Karauri welcomed the funding, noting that the society will build a milk washing bay and replace plastic containers with food-grade cans to improve hygiene.
“We’re also purchasing a tuk-tuk for milk transport, which will cut our daily delivery costs from Sh800 to Sh500,” Karauri said.
The initiative also includes training on cooperative governance, digital record-keeping, and tailored business development support.
AVSI Kenya Country Representative Romana Koech emphasized a collaborative approach, saying: “We believe in a multi-sectoral model involving NGOs, government, and private players. It’s proven effective in transforming the dairy value chain.”
The grant is expected to improve milk handling, storage, and processing capacity, ultimately boosting both product quality and farmer earnings across the region.
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