The government has designated Sh.500 million for the refurbishment of the New Kenya Co-operative Creameries (KCC), aiming to enhance milk production and operational efficiency.
Co-operatives and MSMEs Cabinet Secretary, Simon Chelugui, announced the allocation during a speech in Eldoret on Thursday.
Chelugui emphasized the expansion plan’s objective, which is to facilitate the storage of increased milk output for export to neighboring countries.
The government’s target is to escalate milk production from 4.2 million to 10.2 million liters annually.
- NTSA Says 84 People Killed In Road Accidents An A Week In 2024
- Hyena Attacks Four Women In Kirinyaga Village
- Microsoft Gains Ground On Apple In Market Value Race
In addition to the KCC renovation, Chelugui underscored the government’s commitment to educating farmers on cultivating coffee in the region, aiming to boost profits in agriculture.
He specifically mentioned Uasin Gishu, Baringo, and Trans Nzoia counties, urging them to prioritize coffee farming.
Chelugui disclosed plans to launch the Coffee Cherry Advance Fund in these areas, providing farmers with advance payments.
During a prior event in Machakos County on Tuesday, the CS inaugurated the fund, assuring farmers of the government’s dedication to paying them Sh.80 per kilo for their coffee.
Chelugui clarified that the payment process involves Sh.40 upon arrival at the factory and an additional Ksh.40 upon arrival at the mill.
Importantly, he emphasized that this payment is not a loan and is guaranteed within one month after harvesting.
The government’s multifaceted approach, encompassing both KCC renovations and coffee farming initiatives, reflects its concerted effort to bolster the agricultural sector and empower local farmers.