70,000 litres of milk produced annually thanks to AI service

Three years ago, Murang'a County Government initiated an artificial insemination (AI) programme to boost milk production and empower dairy farmers financially. The programme provided the service at a subsided fee of only Sh500. Those who opt to have their cows served at home pay Sh600.

Mr Peter Njaramba in Kangema has enjoyed the service thrice. "The charges have been friendly and production of high quality breed of calves encouraging," said Njaramba. Private AI providers had been charging between Sh1,500 and Sh2,500, per service, depending on quality of semen before they were rendered jobless after the initiative by the county administration was rolled out.

In July last year, the service was made free in an effort to increase milk production - the initiative is targeting production of 100,000 litres of milk by end of year. Presently, dairy farmers from the 28 cooperative societies in the region are producing an average of 70,000 litres annually. This financial year, the Assembly has allocated Sh433 million to support completion of a milk processing plant in Maragua to fast track value addition chain.

Murang'a Governor Mwangi wa Iria described the dairy sector as a potential income earner. The county government, Mr Iria said had introduced quality nappier grass to provide fodder for the animals. Veterinary experts, he said were on instruction to visit homes and advise farmers on best practices to make the sector vibrant. "As an expert in the dairy sector, I have a vision to transform Murang'a to a major milk producer," said Iria.

Since the dairy project kicked off in February last year, farmers have earned in excess of Sh700 million. Hundreds of youth can now access high yielding cows under a cow ownership programme facilitated by Mentor Sacco. County Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Albert Mwaniki said more than 10,000 calves have been born through the programme. "With free service we expect the number of calves to triple, thus increased milk production," said Mr Mwaniki.