Kenyan dairy value chain attracts benchmarking visits from Ethiopia, Rwanda

KENYA – The Kenyan dairy value chain continues to draw interest from regional stakeholders, with delegations from Ethiopia and Rwanda visiting the country to study its regulatory frameworks, quality assurance systems, and sustainable production strategies. 

Recently, the Kenya Dairy Board (KDB) hosted a 10-member Ethiopian delegation composed of officials from government regulatory bodies, cooperative agencies, and dairy processors.

A report by KDB indicated that the Ethiopian team was on a three-day benchmarking visit to examine Kenya’s approach to regulating the dairy sector, tackling illegal raw milk marketing, ensuring quality milk production, and increasing output through farmer training and capacity building. 

Their visit began at KDB headquarters, where they were welcomed by the Managing Director and taken through presentations on Kenya’s structured dairy policies. 

The delegation presented a certificate of appreciation to the MD in recognition of the board’s role in advancing dairy regulations.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of Kenya’s dairy value chain, the team aimed totour key institutions, including the Kenya Bureau of Standards, the New Kenya Co-operative Creameries, the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization, and Fresha Dairy. 

According to an Ethiopian official, “Kenya’s ability to maintain a structured and efficient dairy value chain provides an important model for us as we work to enhance our own sector.”

KDB also hosted a delegation from Rwanda’s dairy sector, led by Ms. Florence Musiime of the Rwanda National Dairy Platform, alongside officials from the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Board and other key stakeholders. 

Their benchmarking visit focuses on dairy innovation, particularly in genetic improvement, productivity enhancement, and climate resilience.

The Rwandan team visited the Kenya Animal Genetic Resources Centre, where they engaged with Managing Director Dr. Bernadette Misoi on strategies for advancing breed development and sustainable dairy farming. 

A report by the delegation highlighted the significance of knowledge exchange in strengthening regional dairy value chains and ensuring long-term food security.

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