MERU, Kenya — The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) has introduced a new hybrid dairy cow developed by crossing the high-yielding Friesian breed with the hardy indigenous Sahiwal. The new breed is expected to produce more milk, offer improved quality and demonstrate stronger resistance to common livestock diseases — a breakthrough aimed at transforming Kenya’s dairy sector.
Speaking in Kinoro, Igoji West, South Imenti, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said the innovation is part of a long-term national plan to improve dairy productivity and enhance farmers’ earnings across the country.
Kagwe noted that although Meru County consistently ranks among the highest milk-producing regions in Kenya, farmers continue to incur substantial losses due to inadequate storage facilities that lead to milk spoilage.
To address the challenge, the CS flagged off a new batch of milk coolers destined for various dairy-producing zones in Meru. The equipment, he said, will help stabilize milk supply, extend freshness and significantly reduce wastage.
“For ages, farmers have been losing millions of litres of milk through spoilage. These coolers will improve productivity, minimize losses and increase profits for our farmers,” Kagwe said.
Livestock Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke revealed that Meru has already received 14 milk coolers, six of which are powered by solar energy. He said solar technology will cut operational costs for farmers, boosting overall profitability.
Mueke added that government-backed development programmes under the Kenya Kwanza administration — including the NYOTA programme, modern markets and other empowerment initiatives — have strengthened public confidence in national leadership. He pointed to the recent Mbeere North by-election victory as evidence of growing public trust and hinted that continued delivery of such projects will shape the 2027 political landscape.
CS Kagwe also urged farmers to prioritize the quality of animal feed, warning that contamination with aflatoxins often leads to rejection of Kenyan dairy products in international markets, particularly in Europe.
He encouraged dairy farmers to upscale production, revealing that Kenya has secured new export markets, positioning dairy as a future powerhouse for agricultural revenue.
“Dairy farming is set to become Kenya’s most profitable agricultural sector — ahead of tea and coffee,” he said.
South Imenti MP Dr. Shadrack Mwiti, who hosted the event, welcomed the distribution of milk coolers to Meru farmers. He highlighted several ongoing development projects in his constituency, including new administrative units, road upgrades and classroom construction.
Mwiti appealed to residents to grant him a second term in office to enable him to fulfil his manifesto pledges and complete ongoing developments.
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