KENYA – The stalled milk factory in Malava constituency, Kakamega county, is set to be completed by December following a recent deal between the county government and investor ABF United Company Limited.
The construction of the milk processing plant, initiated by former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya in 2019, had faced delays, but the new agreement aims to breathe life into the project.
Governor Fernandes Barasa, during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with ABF United Company Limited, announced that they have reached a consensus on completing and operationalizing the project.
The milk plant is expected to generate 1,000 jobs, contributing significantly to local employment.
“We have agreed on modalities to complete the project before the year ends so that we can create jobs and support our dairy farmers who have eagerly awaited the completion of the project,” Governor Barasa stated.
In addition to the completion of the milk processing plant, the county has also partnered with the company to establish a feed factory to sustain dairy farmers.
The feed factory will support livestock farming and value addition, further integrating beef into the dairy value chain.
Additionally, plans include the establishment of an animal rearing center to enhance the overall livestock sector.
Governor Barasa emphasized that the operationalization of the factory would boost milk production in the county, helping to meet the increasing demand.
The plant is projected to have the capacity to process up to 50,000 liters of milk per day, contributing significantly to addressing the milk deficit in the region.
“My administration has invested Sh150 million to acquire land for the construction of a milk processing plant with oxidation ponds to treat wastewater,” added Governor Barasa, highlighting the commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.
The ABF United Company Limited delegation, led by Mohammed Mousa, expressed their commitment to completing the project within the stipulated time frame.
Mousa also assured farmers of technology-backed methods in dairy farming and access to international markets for their products.
Kakamega County has been actively investing in the smart farm project, allocating Sh240 million to increase daily milk production to 6,000 liters, ensuring the sustainability of the milk factory.
Chief Officers for Livestock, Veterinary Services, and Fisheries, Jessica Wesonga, highlighted the county’s efforts to establish smart dairy farms, serving as learning centers for farmers and students.
The anticipated completion of the milk processing plant is expected to positively impact the local dairy industry, providing a ready market for farmers and promoting economic development in the region.
