Githunguri Dairy strengthens export goals through KNCCI engagement

KENYA – Githunguri Dairy, a prominent Gold Member of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), has enhanced its engagement with the KNCCI network, particularly in expanding into new export markets, including Somalia and Saudi Arabia. 

During a recent visit, General Manager Fredrick Muriithi and Brand Manager Wairimu Chege explored opportunities to utilize the KNCCI iSoko platform for promoting their products throughout East Africa.

Known for its brand Fresha, the dairy cooperative is supported by a network of small-scale farmers who contribute 260,000 liters of milk daily. 

To empower these farmers, the company has established the Githunguri Dairy Cooperative Sacco, an independent financial institution offering local farmers investment opportunities.

In parallel, the government of Nakuru County is improving market access for dairy farmers by creating office spaces within local markets through the Nakuru County Dairy Cooperative Societies Union. 

This initiative aims to reduce marketing barriers by connecting farmers directly with customers. 

As part of the National Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP), Nakuru’s agricultural agenda also includes the Farmer-Led Irrigation Development (FLID) and Market Access Infrastructure Development (MAID) initiatives to strengthen dairy market access and infrastructure.

According to Nakuru County Secretary Dr. Samuel Mwaura, the MAID initiative will focus on the dairy sector by supporting cooperatives that meet criteria such as farmer population and milk intake. 

The FLID program, meanwhile, aims to enhance irrigation and water resources for small-scale farmers. 

However, Bernard Mwenje, chairman of Nakuru’s small-scale farmers, highlighted the need for branding support to help farmers compete in larger markets. 

Dr. Mwaura also encouraged farmers to invest in high-quality breeds and use artificial insemination (AI) to boost productivity, citing a total of KSh 11.7 million in revenues from 300 million liters of milk in the previous fiscal year.

This meeting, which brought together officials, NAVCDP Coordinator Peter Githunguri, and other stakeholders, is in line with broader governmental efforts to support the financial growth of dairy farmers.

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