In a remarkable display of commitment to Kenya’s dairy farming community, Brookside, a leading milk processor, has injected new life into the North Rift region by disbursing an impressive sum of KSh711 million ($4.89 million) to dairy farmers as payment for their milk deliveries. This substantial financial boost is poised to make a profound impact on the lives of countless farmers, underlining Brookside’s unwavering dedication to transforming dairy farming into a thriving commercial enterprise.
A Windfall for North Rift Farmers:
The star of the payout show was West Pokot, with its dairy producers receiving a remarkable sum of KSh197.8 million from Brookside. Trans Nzoia followed closely, securing the second position with a commendable payout of KSh183.9 million. Uasin Gishu dairy farmers raked in KSh171.3 million, while their counterparts in Nandi and Elgeyo Marakwet counties received payments of KSh126.1 million and KSh31.9 million, respectively. This financial infusion promises to empower farmers and uplift communities across the North Rift region.
Brookside’s Unwavering Commitment: Mr. Emmanuel Kabaki, the General Manager in charge of milk procurement at Brookside, expressed the company’s steadfast dedication to collaborating with farmers to elevate dairy farming into a fully-fledged commercial venture, ensuring reliable incomes for all involved. He proudly announced that Brookside procures 100% of all contracted milk volumes from farmers, without any form of rationing, even during seasons of plenty.
A Greener Future for Dairy Farming:
In harmony with Brookside’s climate-smart initiatives, Mr. Kabaki emphasized the company’s efforts to promote agroforestry on dairy farms through tree planting. Moreover, Brookside has established fodder resource centers in its raw milk bulking stations, including one in Kitale, for fodder multiplication and distribution to farmers. Farmers are also urged to conserve feed during anticipated El Niño rains for use during dry seasons, ensuring sustainable dairy farming practices.
Enhancing Cow Breeds and Production:
Brookside’s commitment to the dairy industry extends beyond financial support. The company is currently piloting a semen and liquid nitrogen distribution program for its farmers, aimed at enhancing cow breeds and increasing milk production. These strategic investments underscore Brookside’s dedication to the long-term growth and prosperity of the Kenyan dairy sector.
Commending Dairy Farming’s Impact:
Mr. Robert Lelei, a smallholder farmer from Ziwa in the Uasin Sirikwa Dairy Co-operative Society, commended the profound positive impact of dairy farming on the lives of North Rift residents. He shared how many farmers in the region have come to rely on dairy farming as a dependable source of income for their families.
A Commitment to Knowledge Sharing:
Brookside’s support in the region transcends financial incentives; the company actively participates in agricultural events such as the annual agribusiness trade fair held at the University of Eldoret. This event serves as a vital platform for stakeholders in the agricultural sector to explore new technologies, exchange ideas for improved efficiencies, and showcase best agricultural practices.
In summary, Brookside’s generous payout and unwavering commitment to North Rift’s dairy farming community exemplify a vision for a prosperous and sustainable future. As financial barriers are lifted and sustainable practices encouraged, the North Rift region is poised to continue flourishing as a hub of dairy excellence in Kenya.
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