Overview of Dairy Farming in Kenya
Dairy farming is an essential sector of Kenya’s agricultural industry, contributing significantly to the country’s economy. The dairy industry accounts for about 14% of the country’s agricultural GDP, and it employs over 1.5 million people directly and indirectly. The production of milk in Kenya has been increasing over the years, with the country producing approximately 5.2 billion liters of milk in 2019. Despite the success of the industry, many farmers in Kenya still grapple with the question of whether dairy farming is profitable or not.
Dairy Farming Methods in Kenya
There are two broad methods of dairy farming in Kenya: the traditional system and the improved system. In the traditional system, farmers rely on natural grazing and feeding their cows with little or no supplements. On the other hand, the improved system involves feeding cows with a balanced diet and providing them with proper housing and healthcare. The improved system is more profitable than the traditional system.
Challenges Facing Dairy Farming in Kenya
Dairy farming in Kenya faces several challenges that make it difficult for farmers to earn a decent income. These challenges include:
- Poor Breeds: Many farmers in Kenya still keep local breeds that are not well adapted to milk production.
- High Cost of Inputs: The cost of animal feed, veterinary services, and equipment is high, making it difficult for many farmers to afford these inputs.
- Inadequate Extension Services: Farmers lack access to reliable information on how to improve their dairy farming practices and increase their productivity.
- Poor Market Linkages: Many farmers in Kenya sell their milk to intermediaries who offer low prices, making it difficult for farmers to make a profit.
The Profitability of Dairy Farming in Kenya
Dairy farming in Kenya can be profitable if farmers adopt the improved system of dairy farming. The improved system involves using high-yielding breeds, providing cows with a balanced diet, proper housing, and healthcare. Farmers who practice improved dairy farming earn more than those who practice traditional dairy farming.
Cost-Benefit Analysis of Dairy Farming
A cost-benefit analysis of dairy farming in Kenya shows that the net income from dairy farming is positive. The cost-benefit analysis takes into account the cost of inputs such as animal feed, veterinary services, and equipment, and the income from milk production. A study conducted by the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) in 2016 shows that the net income from dairy farming in Kenya is approximately Ksh 3,000 per cow per month.
Success Stories of Dairy Farming in Kenya
Several farmers in Kenya have succeeded in dairy farming and have built successful dairy enterprises. For instance, Josephine Gitonga, a dairy farmer in Meru County, started with one cow and has now grown her herd to 22 cows. She sells her milk to a processor and earns an average of Ksh 120,000 per month. Another success story is that of Peter Ndung’u, a dairy farmer in Kiambu County, who started with two cows and now has 36 cows. He sells his milk to a processor and earns an average of Ksh 200,000 per month.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dairy farming in Kenya can be profitable if farmers adopt the improved system of dairy farming. The improved system involves using high-yielding breeds, providing cows with a balanced diet, proper housing, and healthcare. Farmers who practice improved dairy farming earn more than those who practice traditional dairy farming. Despite the challenges facing dairy farming in Kenya, several farmers have succeeded in building successful dairy enterprises. Farmers who are willing to put in the effort and invest in their dairy enterprises can earn a decent income from dairy farming in Kenya.