Kuresoi: Dairy Farming and The Milk Price

Dairy Farming Challenges in Kuresoi: Keeping Hope Alive Amidst Adversity

By Gerald Kipsang

For the people of Kuresoi, dairy farming has long been more than just a means of livelihood; it is a way of life. Nestled in the lush landscapes of Nakuru County, Kuresoi is a place where community spirit and agricultural pursuits intertwine. Yet, amidst the serene beauty, dairy farmers in this region grapple with a challenging reality: poor milk prices that continuously threaten to undermine their hard work and dedication.

Understanding the Crisis

A significant issue facing dairy farmers in Kuresoi is the persistent struggle with unsatisfactory milk prices. For many, the dream of sustaining and growing their farming operations has been overshadowed by the reality of market prices that often fall below production costs. This economic strain has the potential to discourage further milk production, posing a significant risk to the livelihoods of farmers who rely heavily on dairy farming to support their families, pay school fees and attend to many responsibilities that requires financial abilities.

Dairy farmers in a past gathering at Kiptororo Kuresoi follow discussions on dairy farming.

The Impact of Poor Prices

Poor milk prices create a ripple effect throughout Kuresoi's agricultural landscape.  Farmers, of whom have dedicated decades to building their dairy farms, planting different types of Napier grass and other fodder, find themselves grappling with financial uncertainties. This financial pressure can often lead to tough decisions, including reducing the scale of farming operations or even exiting the industry altogether. Such moves not only impact individual farmers but also resonate throughout the community, resulting in reduced employment opportunities and a decline in local economic activity.

Cuttings of famous Pakcjong Napier grass.

Striving for Solutions

Despite these challenges, resilience and ingenuity remain at the heart of Kuresoi's farming community. Farmers are coming together to explore collective solutions, such as forming cooperatives to strengthen their bargaining power in the market. These cooperatives are supposed to aim at securing better milk prices, allowing farmers to reinvest in their operations and improve the overall quality of dairy products. Unfortunately,the prices keep dropping instead of rising. Currently no cooperative takes milk from farmers at a price beyond Ksh 40. Which could count to be a loss to the farmers.

An image of Kiptororo dairy farmers cooperative board  in 2014

That is why some farmers are turning to alternative income streams by integrating other agricultural activities alongside dairy farming. With this diversification, though challenging, offers a lifeline to those willing to adapt and innovate. From poultry farming to crop cultivation like potatoes and tea help to mitigate some of the financial burdens imposed by poor milk prices.

A Call for Support

If dairy farming is indeed a concern to the authorities, first let price be profitable to the farmer. And as the narrative of dairy farming in Kuresoi unfolds, it is crucial for stakeholders, including the government and private sector, to lend their support. Concerted efforts from the county agriculture and livestock docket to offer subsidies, in dairy imputs, which include AI services and opening up access to more lucrative markets can significantly alleviate the pressure on local farmers. It is particularly vital for the people doing dairy to receive guidance and tools that enable them to navigate modern farming practices efficiently.

Local vet, Ben Psalmist, elaborate a point to farmers during a field day in Kuresoi North.

In the face of adversity, the dairy farmers of Kuresoi exemplify resilience. They stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of community and the unwavering commitment to their trade. With the right support and innovative strategies, they remain hopeful that a brighter, more sustainable future for dairy farming is well within reach.